Cooper DeJean is an athletic anomaly in the modern NFL; he is more than just another gifted cornerback. He embodies the perfect combination of speed, agility, and technique that every coach dreams of at 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 m) and 198 lbs (90 kg). Because of his stature, he is able to keep up the physicality needed to stymie top-tier wide receivers with ease. The fact that he went from being a defensive standout at Iowa to winning a Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles is evidence of his extraordinary work ethic and innate talent.
| Cooper DeJean – Player Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cooper M. DeJean |
| Date of Birth | February 9, 2003 |
| Age | 22 years |
| Birthplace | Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Weight | 198 lbs (90 kg) |
| Position | Cornerback, Punt Returner |
| Current Team | Philadelphia Eagles (NFL) |
| College | Iowa Hawkeyes (2021–2023) |
| NFL Draft | 2024, Round 2, Pick 40 |
| Super Bowl Titles | 1 (Super Bowl LIX) |
| Career Highlights | Unanimous All-American (2023), Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, NFL Super Bowl record-holder |
| Reference | Philadelphia Eagles Official Website |
A Dominant Frame: The Importance of DeJean’s Size
A football player’s weight and height can determine whether he or she is a star in the fast-paced, physically demanding sport of professional football. While his 198-pound frame gives him enough mass to fight physically without sacrificing speed, DeJean’s 6-foot frame gives him the reach to contest passes.
A large number of cornerbacks in the National Football League are either physical dominating press defenders or speed-focused cover corners. Between these styles, DeJean deftly traverses. He can keep his composure against larger receivers thanks to his weight distribution, and he is a terror to nimble, smaller wideouts thanks to his exceptional footwork and acceleration. He demonstrated his upper-body strength at the NFL Combine by performing 16 bench presses, demonstrating that he can be just as tough in open-field coverage as he is at the line of scrimmage.
Cooper DeJean’s Journey: From Iowa Scandal to NFL Stardom
During his time at Iowa, DeJean transformed the team’s fortunes as a defensive back. Even though the Hawkeyes’ offense was off that year, he was an integral part of the defense that ultimately won the game. He still managed to pick off three passes despite quarterbacks avoiding him; he allowed only 22 receptions and zero touchdowns for the entire season.
His work on special teams was just as remarkable. He won a nail-biter with a 70-yard punt return against Michigan State. A play that could have changed Iowa’s season trajectory—a 54-yard touchdown return against Minnesota—was robbed of him by a contentious officiating call. In those instances, his extraordinary capacity to abruptly change direction shone through.
Regrettably, a leg injury sustained in the middle of November cut short DeJean’s college career. Nevertheless, his influence could not be denied. In addition to being named Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year and unanimously named All-American, he was also a Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Jim Thorpe Award finalist.
NFL Combine and Draft: The Data Speak for Themselves
DeJean entered the 2024 NFL Draft as one of the most intriguing defensive prospects. His pre-draft numbers were nothing short of exceptional:
- 40-yard dash: 4.42 seconds (faster than many wide receivers)
- Vertical jump: 38.5 inches (showing elite lower-body explosiveness)
- Broad jump: 10 feet 4 inches (proving remarkable athletic ability)
- Hand size: 9.63 inches (helping him secure tough catches and deflect passes)
- Arm length: 31.13 inches (giving him an extended reach advantage)
His potential was immediately apparent to the Philadelphia Eagles, who selected him with the 40th overall pick in the second round of the draft. They thought DeJean was a player who could make an impact right away and eventually become an integral part of the franchise.
A Rookie’s Dream Come True: Super Bowl LIX
Not every NFL player has the opportunity to even play in a Super Bowl, much less make a game-changing play. However, DeJean accomplished precisely that in his very first year. His historic 38-yard interception return for a touchdown against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs was the first of its kind by an Eagles player in Super Bowl history.
Because it happened on his 22nd birthday, it became even more famous. In 1947, Steve Van Buren became the only other Eagle to score in a championship game on his birthday. DeJean’s performance solidified his position in Super Bowl lore; it was a showcase for planning, anticipation, and execution.
Cornerbacks in the NFL: How DeJean Fits In With the Shift
With the league’s evolution, the cornerback’s role has also changed. Defensive players now need a unique combination of brains, agility, and top-tier athleticism; gone are the days when strength and speed were enough.
The likes of Jalen Ramsey, Patrick Surtain II, and Sauce Gardner have revolutionized the position of defensive back by demonstrating that physical strength, speed, and agility can thwart the most potent offence. DeJean is about to become a member of this exclusive club. One of the league’s most versatile defenders, he can play nickel, outside corner, or special teams.
Where Does DeJean Go From Here? How to Achieve Your Goals
If DeJean’s first season was any indication, the NFL needs to be ready for the next level. He has all the makings of an all-time great with his blend of speed, strength, and game intelligence. Acquiring knowledge from seasoned leaders such as Darius Slay and James Bradberry will expedite his growth and position him for sustained achievement.
The Eagles will rely on DeJean, their defensive anchor, as they attempt to mount a repeat championship run. Because of his special teams contributions, rare talent, and ability to stifle top receivers, he is a priceless asset. He will go down in Eagles history as one of the all-time great defensive backs, and the team has found a game-changer.
The league is starting to take note of Philadelphia’s acquisition of a potential superstar.
