Cooper DeJean, a promising rookie cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles, has quickly established himself as a key player in the NFL this season. After gradually increasing his role on the defense, DeJean has averaged 52 defensive snaps per game and maintained impressive performance metrics, rarely falling below a PFF game grade of 70.6.
Despite facing challenges in Week 11, where he recorded his lowest PFF overall grade of the season at 53.5, DeJean’s overall performance remains noteworthy. He has consistently demonstrated strong skills throughout the season, ranking fourth in the league for coverage stops with 11, and he has yet to allow a touchdown. Prior to the recent game, DeJean’s season-long PFF grade stood at 83.7, which placed him among the top cornerbacks in the league.
DeJean’s journey began at Iowa, where he showcased his versatility across different positions, including cornerback and punt returner. His college career was marred by injuries that led to a drop in the draft, causing him to be selected by the Eagles as the 40th overall pick. Once viewed as a top prospect, DeJean has not only proven his worth since being inserted into the Eagles’ defensive lineup but has also shown that he can thrive alongside fellow rookies like Quinyon Mitchell.
This promising young cornerback duo is poised to bring a new dynamic to an already competitive division, signaling a bright future for the Eagles’ defense. With offensive leaders like Dak Prescott, Jayden Daniels, and the potential for the Giants to find a strong replacement for Daniel Jones, DeJean’s continued development will be critical in facing formidable opponents.
The Eagles’ decision to bring DeJean into a more prominent role reflects their confidence in his abilities, and it is expected that he will bounce back from the recent setback. His resilience and strong foundation indicate that he will likely recover quickly and contribute significantly as the season progresses, making him a player to watch in the coming weeks.