Cooper DeJean

Cooper DeJean Bio

Cooper Michael DeJean (born February 9, 2003) is an American professional football cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes, receiving unanimous All-American honors in 2023. Selected by the Eagles in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft, DeJean helped the team win Super Bowl LIX as a rookie, where he returned his first career interception for a touchdown in the win.

Early Life and Background

Cooper DeJean grew up in Odebolt, Iowa, a small farming town with a population of approximately 920 people. He attended OA-BCIG, a consolidated school in Ida Grove, Iowa, where he played quarterback and defensive back. DeJean holds numerous school records, showcasing his talent from an early age. As a senior, he passed for 3,447 yards with 35 touchdowns and rushed for 1,235 yards and 24 touchdowns. His performance earned him the title of the 2021 All-American Bowl Adidas Player of the Year. In the 2020 Iowa state championship game, DeJean made several impactful plays, helping OABCIG defeat Van Meter. Within a two-minute span, he blocked an extra point, scored the game-tying touchdown on a 4-yard run, and scored the go-ahead touchdown on a 19-yard run after recovering a fumble. This game was widely celebrated in the local community. In addition to football, DeJean excelled in basketball, scoring 1,832 career points and ranking among the state’s all-time leaders. He also recorded the fastest 100 meters in the state during his senior year in track and field. Despite his athletic achievements and being a four-star recruit, DeJean received limited scholarship offers and ultimately chose to play defense at Iowa over quarterbacking at South Dakota State.

Path to American Football

DeJean began his college football career at the University of Iowa in 2021, where he played in seven games as a true freshman, primarily on special teams. He recorded four tackles during this time. His sophomore year in 2022 marked a turning point as he became a starter, playing cornerback, cash (a hybrid linebacker/safety position), and punt returner. DeJean showcased his versatility against Wisconsin, intercepting a pass and returning it for a touchdown while also recording 10 tackles and forcing a fumble. His performance in the 2022 Music City Bowl, where he was named MVP, included seven tackles and a 14-yard interception return for a touchdown. In the 2023 season, DeJean played a crucial role in Iowa’s success, despite the team’s offensive struggles. He registered three interceptions and allowed only 22 receptions without conceding any touchdowns. DeJean’s contributions included a game-winning 70-yard return against Michigan State, although a controversial call negated another potential touchdown against Minnesota. Despite suffering a leg injury in mid-November, he was named a unanimous consensus All-American and earned multiple Big Ten honors. Following the season, he declared for the 2024 NFL draft.

Cooper DeJean Career

Early Career (2021-2023)

During his early career at Iowa, Cooper DeJean established himself as a formidable player, earning accolades such as the Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year and the Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year in 2023. He was also recognized as a two-time First-team All-Big Ten. His college career culminated in a unanimous All-American selection, reflecting his exceptional performance on the field.

Breakthrough (2024-Present)

DeJean was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 40th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. He made his first career start in Week 6 of the 2024 season at the nickelback position and was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team. His breakout moment came during Super Bowl LIX, where he recorded his first career interception off quarterback Patrick Mahomes, returning it for a 38-yard touchdown. This achievement made him the first Eagles player to score a touchdown in a Super Bowl, coinciding with his 22nd birthday.

Notable Works and Milestones

Cooper DeJean’s signature work includes his pivotal role in Super Bowl LIX, where he contributed to the Eagles’ victory. He finished his rookie season with impressive statistics, including total tackles and interceptions, and earned recognition as a strong defensive player.

Cooper DeJean Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Cooper DeJean has received several nominations, including recognition for his performance as a rookie in the NFL.

Cooper DeJean Awards Won

Cooper DeJean has achieved notable awards, including being a Super Bowl champion and earning a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. He was also recognized as a unanimous All-American and received multiple Big Ten honors during his college career.