Cooper DeJean, the Philadelphia Eagles’ dynamic cornerback and punt returner, has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in the NFL. Wearing the iconic #33 jersey, DeJean made history during Super Bowl LIX with a game-changing pick-six that helped the Eagles secure a dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. This article delves into DeJean’s football career, his age, stats, and his unforgettable performance on the biggest stage in sports.
Early Life and High School Career
Born on February 9, 2003, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Cooper DeJean grew up in the small town of Odebolt, Iowa. He attended OABCIG High School, where he excelled as a multi-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, baseball, and track. As a quarterback and defensive back, DeJean set numerous school records, including passing for 3,447 yards and 35 touchdowns in his senior year. His athleticism was on full display in the state championship game, where he scored two touchdowns and a two-point conversion in a two-minute span.
College Career at Iowa
DeJean chose to play college football at the University of Iowa, where he became a standout player for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Initially playing on special teams as a freshman, he quickly earned a starting role in his sophomore year. DeJean’s versatility allowed him to play cornerback, safety, and even a hybrid linebacker position known as the “cash” role.
In 2023, DeJean was a unanimous All-American and won the Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year and Return Specialist of the Year awards. Despite missing part of the season due to a leg injury, he recorded three interceptions and allowed zero touchdowns in coverage.
NFL Draft and Rookie Season with the Eagles
DeJean declared for the 2024 NFL Draft after his junior year and was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round (40th overall). Standing at 6’0” and weighing 198 lbs, DeJean impressed scouts with his 4.42-second 40-yard dash and 38.5-inch vertical jump.
In his rookie season, DeJean started nine games, recording 51 tackles, 6 pass deflections, and 0.5 sacks. He also made an impact on special teams, returning 21 punts for 211 yards.
Super Bowl LIX: A Birthday to Remember
On February 9, 2025, DeJean celebrated his 22nd birthday in unforgettable fashion during Super Bowl LIX. In the second quarter, he intercepted a pass from Patrick Mahomes and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown, marking the first pick-six of his NFL career. This historic play made DeJean the first player in Super Bowl history to score a touchdown or record an interception on his birthday.
The Eagles’ defense dominated the Chiefs, and DeJean’s performance was a key factor in their 40-22 victory. His ability to read Mahomes’ throw and capitalize on the opportunity showcased his elite instincts and athleticism.
Read: Super Bowl LX 2026 Details
Personal Life and Fun Facts
- Hometown: Odebolt, Iowa, a town with zero stoplights.
- Hobbies: Playing basketball, golfing, and video games.
- Favorite Athlete: LeBron James.
- Net Worth: While exact figures are undisclosed, DeJean’s rookie contract and endorsements are expected to grow as his career progresses.
Conclusion
Cooper DeJean’s journey from a small-town athlete to an NFL star is a testament to his hard work and versatility. His historic performance in Super Bowl LIX not only cemented his place in Eagles lore but also signaled the arrival of a new defensive powerhouse in the league. As DeJean continues to develop, fans can expect even more electrifying plays from the young cornerback wearing the #33 jersey.
For Eagles fans, DeJean’s pick-six on his birthday will forever be remembered as one of the defining moments of Super Bowl LIX. The future is bright for Cooper DeJean, and the NFL is just beginning to see what he’s capable of.
Summary:
- Cooper DeJean: Rising star cornerback for the Eagles.
- Super Bowl LIX: Historic performance with a pick-six.
- Eagles 33: DeJean’s jersey number.
- Pick-six: Game-changing interception returned for a touchdown.
- Iowa Hawkeyes: Where DeJean played college football.
- Birthday: Scored a touchdown on his 22nd birthday.
- Rookie: First-year player making a massive impact.
- Patrick Mahomes: Victim of DeJean’s interception.
- Odebolt, Iowa: DeJean’s hometown.
- NFL Draft: Selected 40th overall in 2024.
For more updates on Cooper DeJean and the Philadelphia Eagles, stay tuned to your favorite sports outlet Ujeri.com
