Cooper DeJean had a Super Bowl debut to remember, securing a pick-six that helped the Philadelphia Eagles defeat the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. The game-changing play, which will be remembered for years to come, happened on an already special day—his birthday. This moment not only marked a significant highlight in DeJean’s career but also solidified his place in Eagles history.
The Nine Eagles Rookies Receiving Super Bowl Rings
Beyond the highlight-reel moment, DeJean will receive a Super Bowl ring along with the rest of the Eagles’ roster, including all nine rookies. Each of them saw playing time during the 2024 season, even if only for a couple of games—except for one, who did not appear in any. This is a remarkable achievement for a team that has invested in young talent, showcasing the depth and potential of their roster.
All nine rookies played in at least one regular-season or postseason game—except for one. Tight end Cameron Latu, who signed a futures contract with the Eagles in January, will still receive a Super Bowl ring despite never suiting up for a game. Originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers, Latu is officially listed as a rookie on the Eagles’ roster. This speaks volumes about the Eagles’ commitment to their players, ensuring that all contributors, regardless of playing time, are recognized.
Defensive Contributions from Rookies
In addition to DeJean, another rookie who contributed in 2024 was linebacker Jalyx Hunt. During the Super Bowl, Hunt recorded a quarterback hit on Patrick Mahomes—his third consecutive game with one in the playoffs, dating back to the Rams matchup. He appeared in 16 games for the Eagles, starting in one, and totaled 21 combined tackles. This kind of performance is crucial for a defense aiming to compete at the highest level, and Hunt’s impact cannot be overstated.
Offensive Rookies Making Their Mark
Defensive rookies left a significant mark, but the Eagles also had first-year players contributing on offense. Wide receiver Johnny Wilson made the most of his opportunities, recording his first career touchdown against the Cowboys on November 11, hauling in a five-yard reception on his only target of the game. This moment not only highlights Wilson’s potential but also illustrates how the Eagles are nurturing their young talent to become key players in the future.
The contributions from these rookies demonstrate the Eagles’ strategic approach to building a competitive team. By integrating young players into both offensive and defensive schemes, the Eagles are setting themselves up for sustained success.
A Look at the Rookies’ Performance
Let’s take a closer look at the nine rookies who made their mark this season:
| Name | Position | College | Round | Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Johnny Wilson | WR | Arizona St. | 6th | 185th |
| Jeremiah Trotter Jr. | LB | Clemson | 5th | 155th |
| Ainias Smith | WR | Texas A&M | 5th | 152nd |
| Will Shipley | RB | Clemson | 4th | 127th |
| Quinyon Mitchell | CB | Toledo | 1st | 22nd |
| Trevor Keegan | G | Michigan | 5th | 172nd |
| Jalyx Hunt | OLB | Cornell | 3rd | 94th |
| Cooper DeJean | DB | Iowa | 2nd | 40th |
| Cameron Latu* | TE | Alabama | 3rd | 101st |
Looking Ahead
The future looks bright for the Philadelphia Eagles, especially with such a talented group of rookies making their mark in their first season. The combination of defensive prowess and offensive potential creates a solid foundation for the team to build upon. As they head into the next season, fans can expect these young players to continue developing and contributing to the Eagles’ success.
As we celebrate Cooper DeJean’s unforgettable Super Bowl moment, it’s essential to recognize the collective effort of all the Eagles rookies. Their contributions not only led to a championship but also set the stage for a promising future in Philadelphia. With each game, they are not just building their careers; they are also crafting a legacy for the Eagles that fans will cherish for years to come.
