Anonymous Big Ten coach sounds off on Cooper DeJean in NFL draft confidential
Former Iowa Hawkeyes do-it-all man Cooper DeJean, who played corner, punt returner and gunner on punt coverage has long been viewed as a special player by Iowa fans. They saw it week in and week out with his game-changing plays.
Now that DeJean is in the NFL as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, many expect those types of plays to carry over to Sundays. Not only did Iowa fans, teammates and coaches see him in action, but opposing Big Ten coaches had to deal with DeJean as well.
In ESPN’s NFL draft confidential, the site spoke anonymously with coaches. One Big Ten coach had high praise for Cooper DeJean as an “elite and special” player.
Perhaps a bigger surprise came a few picks later, as Iowa defensive back Cooper DeJean went at No. 40 to the Philadelphia Eagles. DeJean, a unanimous All-America selection and the Big Ten’s defensive back of the year, played primarily cornerback for the Hawkeyes and was evaluated at corner and safety. He broke his leg late last season while practicing on offense but recovered to run well at his pro day workout several weeks ago.
“I think he’s elite, he’s special, he’ll prove himself and be just fine,” a Big Ten coach said. “He easily was a first-round talent.” – Adam Rittenberg, ESPN
The pick by the Eagles was resoundingly applauded as one of the top picks of the entire draft due to DeJean’s unexpected slide. The slide has landed DeJean with a new home that is crazed for football and on a team that is ready to contend immediately for a Super Bowl.
With his game-changing ability and versatility, Cooper DeJean has every chance to start Week 1. His talent is only going to get better, and he can allow an NFL defense to get very creative.
Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions.
Follow Riley on X: @rileydonald7
