Iowa’s Cooper DeJean is ready for a new challenge.
Cooper DeJean of Iowa became the highest-drafted defensive back in the Kirk Ferentz era on Friday, going to the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 40 overall. DeJean, who will be remembered as one of the greatest Hawkeyes of all time, was a dynamic playmaker for Iowa and will attempt to help reinvigorate the Eagles’ pass defense.
Iowa City, Iowa— Cooper DeJean of Iowa became the highest-drafted defensive back in the Kirk Ferentz era on Friday, going to the Philadelphia Eagles at number 40 overall. DeJean, who will be remembered as one of the greatest Hawkeyes of all time, was a dynamic playmaker for Iowa and will seek to help resuscitate the Eagles’ faltering passing defense.
DeJean was widely expected to be drafted in the first round, but his name was not announced on Thursday night. There was more anticipation than anything else, but when he heard his name early on Friday, his frustration subsided, and he’s now ready to go on.
“I mean, all I wanted was an opportunity to play,” DeJean remarked during his Eagles debut. “Obviously, there was some irritation yesterday, but I’m pleased about where I’m at, being in Philadelphia, and being able to play for a fantastic franchise. I’m excited to get started there, to get out there and get moving, to get back to playing football. You know, I was getting bored of the pre-draft process, so I’m just glad to get back to football.”
According to the Eagles, DeJean has a first-round draft grade. They also stated that they did not have 32 first-round ratings. DeJean spoke openly about his visit to Philadelphia, stating that he believed it would be beneficial to all parties if he were drafted there.
“It’s great; here is where I wanted to be. “I had a wonderful visit there during the draft process,” DeJean stated. “There are outstanding coaches, teams, and organizations. This is something you dream about as a child, so I’m thrilled to put my skills to it. Get in, get to work, learn from the veterans that are currently present, and go win some football games.”
Philadelphia also chose a cornerback in the first round, so DeJean will not have an immediate starting role as an outside corner. The Eagles were drawn to his versatility at many positions, which makes sense for their defense.
“The guy has every tool in his body,” Eagles Executive Vice President/General Manager Howie Roseman stated at a press conference on Friday night. “He is an exceptional athlete and competitor. He has accomplished everything on the football field. He just has football instincts. He’s the type of player that will perform admirably no matter where he plays. He has a fantastic personality, and I’m very pleased to get him.
“Playing in the Big Ten, it’s a pretty physical game and that’s what I love about the game of football — how physical it is,” DeJean said in an interview. “Being able to go out there and knock everyone down. And having those matchups on the outside, too. However, being able to come downhill and have an impact on the run game is equally important. So I believe playing at Iowa has prepared me well for the next level.”
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