Cooper DeJean is an American football cornerback and punt returner for the Philadelphia Eagles. He played college football at the University of Iowa, where he earned unanimous All-American honors in 2023. The Philadelphia Eagles selected DeJean in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. His selection marks a significant step in his professional football career.
1947: Steve Van Buren's Championship Touchdown
In 1947, Steve Van Buren scored a touchdown in a championship game on his birthday.
February 9, 2003: Birth of Cooper DeJean
Cooper DeJean was born on February 9, 2003.
2021: Freshman Season at Iowa
DeJean played in seven games as a true freshman at Iowa in 2021, primarily on special teams.
2021: All-American Bowl Adidas Player of the Year
In 2021, DeJean was named the All-American Bowl Adidas Player of the Year. He also led his high school team, OABCIG, to a state title, with a particularly impactful performance in the championship game.
2023: Key Player for Iowa, Injury, and Awards
During the 2023 season, DeJean was a crucial part of Iowa's defense and special teams. He made several key plays, including a game-winning punt return against Michigan State. A controversial disallowed punt return against Minnesota drew attention. DeJean suffered a leg injury in mid-November and missed the remainder of the season. He was named a unanimous All-American and won several other awards.
2023: Unanimous All-American Honors
In 2023, DeJean received unanimous All-American honors while playing college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
2024: NFL Draft Declaration
DeJean declared for the 2024 NFL Draft after the 2023 season.
2024: First Career Start
DeJean made his first career start in week 6 of the 2024 season against the Cleveland Browns.
2024: Drafted into the NFL
DeJean was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft.
2024: Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles
DeJean was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 40th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.