Cooper DeJean, a name that resonates with excitement in the world of college football, was once hailed as one of the top defensive backs heading into last year’s NFL Draft. Despite his impressive skills and accolades, the former Iowa Hawkeyes standout found himself slipping to the second round, landing at No. 40 overall with the Philadelphia Eagles. But what a turn of events it has been for him since then!
Super Bowl Glory
DeJean’s journey took a thrilling leap during Super Bowl 59, where he showcased his talent on the biggest stage against the Kansas City Chiefs. With the Eagles already leading 10-0 in the second quarter, the Chiefs were desperate to make a comeback. On a pivotal third-and-16 play from their own 24-yard line, quarterback Patrick Mahomes attempted a pass that went awry, landing right in DeJean’s hands. The rookie didn’t hesitate; he sprinted 38 yards to the end zone, scoring a pick-six that extended the Eagles’ lead to 17-0.
This moment was monumental for several reasons. Not only was it DeJean’s first career NFL interception, but it also coincided with his 22nd birthday. Talk about a birthday gift! To top it off, NFL Network’s Chris Rose highlighted that this was the first pick-six in a Super Bowl since the Atlanta Falcons’ Robert Alford intercepted Tom Brady in Super Bowl 51. Unlike Alford, DeJean and the Eagles emerged victorious, cementing his place in Eagles lore.
A Dream Come True
When asked about that exhilarating moment, DeJean shared his thoughts with Scott Van Pelt on SportsCenter, saying, “Right when I touched it. I was trying to find the open lane, trying to find the open grass to get in the end zone. Luckily, I had some guys throwing some blocks out there for me, and I was able to get in there. It was awesome.” His excitement was palpable, and it’s easy to see why—scoring in the Super Bowl is a dream for any player.
Overcoming Adversity
However, DeJean’s path to this moment wasn’t without its challenges. Injury concerns likely played a significant role in his draft stock slipping. He suffered a season-ending lower leg injury late in the 2023 season while playing for Iowa. In that season, he managed to record 41 combined tackles, two interceptions, and five pass deflections in just 10 games. The year before, as a sophomore, he had a stellar performance, playing in 13 games and posting 75 combined tackles, five interceptions, and eight pass deflections. It’s clear that when healthy, DeJean is a force to be reckoned with on the field.
A Fortunate Pick for the Eagles
The Eagles’ decision to select DeJean in the second round, right after drafting Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell at No. 22 in the first round, was nothing short of remarkable. It’s a testament to the team’s scouting and their ability to recognize talent that others may overlook. DeJean’s skills and determination have already begun to pay dividends, and the Eagles are surely thrilled to have him on their roster.
Legacy in the Making
Now, as DeJean continues to build his career, he is already cemented as an Iowa great. His unforgettable performance in the Super Bowl has etched his name in Eagles history, no matter how the rest of his career unfolds. Fans will undoubtedly remember that moment when he turned a potential game-changing play for the Chiefs into a highlight-reel score for the Eagles.
As we look ahead, one can only wonder: what’s next for Cooper DeJean? Will he continue to rise through the ranks and become a household name in the NFL? With his talent, determination, and now a Super Bowl victory under his belt, the sky’s the limit for this young star.
In the world of college football and the NFL, stories like DeJean’s inspire countless young athletes dreaming of making it big. His journey reminds us that with hard work, perseverance, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible. As we follow his career, we can’t help but cheer him on, hoping for more incredible moments that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. After all, isn’t that what football is all about?
