After making his way back from a broken leg in November 2023, Cooper DeJean is showcasing why so many scouts were extremely high on him.
DeJean missed a handful of games to start his NFL career in 2024 after the Eagles took him with the No. 40 overall pick in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
DeJean's impact was felt immediately as the Philadelphia defense went from middle of the pack to one of the best units in the NFL.
Not only did DeJean solidify the outside for the Eagles, but he also helped seal their Super Bowl LVIII victory, intercepting a Patrick Mahomes pass and taking it to the house.
Now in his second season, DeJean continues to be a lockdown corner for the Eagles' defense, recently earning praise from a former NFL legend.
Tom Brady on former Iowa defensive back, Cooper DeJean this afternoon:
— Eliot Clough (@EliotClough) November 23, 2025
“Tremendous player in his second year. I love him. He’s an ascending player. Run game, pass game — it’s all there. He’s got the athleticism to cover all these guys, and he’s so physical in the run game.”
The GOAT Tom Brady had nothing but praise for the former Hawkeye, calling him a "tremendous player" who is on the rise.
DeJean has received more and more praise throughout his young NFL career, but getting that from Brady is something he can hang his hat on.
DeJean had a bit of a down game by his standards against the Dallas Cowboys last weekend, but has had a stellar sophomore season overall.
Through 11 games this season, DeJean has tallied 67 total tackles (46 solo, 21 assisted), two forced fumbles, one interception, and 0.5 sacks.
In two seasons in the NFL, DeJean is a Super Bowl champion and was named to the NFL's Top 100 players of 2025 list before the season.
Not a bad start for the former Hawkeye star.