History of Cooper DeJean in Timeline
Cooper DeJean is an American professional football cornerback and punt returner currently playing for the Philadelphia Eagles of the NFL. He achieved unanimous All-American status in 2023 while playing college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Drafted by the Eagles in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft, DeJean contributed to the team's Super Bowl LIX victory as a rookie. In that game, he secured his first career interception, returning it for a touchdown.
February 9, 2003: Cooper DeJean's Birth
On February 9, 2003, Cooper DeJean was born. He later became a professional football cornerback and punt returner.
2020: Iowa State Championship Victory
In 2020, Cooper DeJean led OABCIG to victory in the Iowa state championship game, making several impactful plays, including blocking an extra point and scoring two touchdowns in quick succession.
2021: Freshman Season at Iowa
In 2021, Cooper DeJean played in seven games as a true freshman at Iowa, primarily on special teams, and recorded four tackles.
2021: All-American Bowl Adidas Player of the Year
In 2021, Cooper DeJean was named the All-American Bowl Adidas Player of the Year, marking a significant achievement in his high school career.
2022: Sophomore Year Impact
In 2022, Cooper DeJean became a starter at Iowa, playing multiple positions including cornerback, cash, and punt returner. He showcased his versatility against Wisconsin with an interception returned for a touchdown and 10 tackles.
2023: All-American and Big Ten Honors
During the 2023 season, Cooper DeJean was named unanimous consensus All-American, Tatum-Woodson Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, and Rodgers-Dwight Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year. He also suffered a leg injury in mid-November, sidelining him for the remainder of the season.
2023: Declaration for NFL Draft
Following the 2023 season, Cooper DeJean declared for the 2024 NFL draft. He was compared to Nile Kinnick by his defensive coordinator.
2024: Drafted by Philadelphia Eagles
In 2024, Cooper DeJean was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles with the 40th overall pick of the NFL draft.
2024: NFL Draft Preparation
In 2024, leading up to the NFL draft, Cooper DeJean was highly praised, with comparisons to Nile Kinnick.
2024: First Career Start
In Week 6 of the 2024 season, Cooper DeJean made his first career start for the Philadelphia Eagles against the Cleveland Browns, playing at the nickelback position.
