Brief Introduction of Cooper DeJean
Cooper DeJean is a versatile American football player, currently serving as a cornerback and punt returner for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). His reputation is built on his exceptional athleticism and game-changing plays. DeJean rose to prominence during his college career with the Iowa Hawkeyes, where he received unanimous All-American honors in 2023. He was selected by the Eagles in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft and quickly became an integral part of the team.
Cooper DeJean Overview
| Full Name | Cooper Michael DeJean |
| Date of Birth | February 9, 2003 |
| Age | 22 |
| Birthplace | Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m) |
| Weight | 198 lb (90 kg) |
| Profession | Professional Football Player (Cornerback, Punt Returner) |
| Team | Philadelphia Eagles |
| Net Worth | Approximately $9.28 million |
| Family | Jason DeJean (Father), Katie DeJean (Mother), Jaxx DeJean (Brother) |
| Girlfriend | Steph Wilfawn |
Early Life and Education of Cooper DeJean
Cooper DeJean was born on February 9, 2003, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to parents Jason and Katie DeJean. He grew up in the small farming town of Odebolt, Iowa, which has a population of just over 900 people. DeJean attended OABCIG (Odebolt-Arthur-Battle Creek-Ida Grove), a consolidated high school in Ida Grove, Iowa. His athletic talents were not limited to the football field. He was a multi-sport star, excelling in basketball, baseball, and track and field.
In high school, DeJean showcased his versatility as both a quarterback and a defensive back. His senior year was particularly noteworthy, as he passed for 3,447 yards and 35 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,235 yards and 24 touchdowns. He was a dominant force on the basketball court as well, scoring over 1,800 career points, and was a state champion in both the 100-meter dash and the long jump in track and field. His all-around athletic prowess earned him the title of Iowa High School Male Athlete of the Year.
Cooper DeJean’s Career
College Career at Iowa
DeJean committed to the University of Iowa, where he played for the Hawkeyes from 2021 to 2023. During his freshman year, he primarily played on special teams. However, he became a starter in his sophomore year in 2022 and made an immediate impact. He played multiple positions, including cornerback and a hybrid linebacker/safety role, and was also the team’s punt returner. That season, he recorded 75 tackles, five interceptions (three of which he returned for touchdowns), and eight pass breakups. His exceptional performance earned him first-team All-Big Ten honors.
In his junior season in 2023, DeJean continued to be a pivotal player for the Hawkeyes’ renowned defense and special teams. Despite his season being cut short by a leg injury, he was named a unanimous consensus All-American. He also received the Tatum-Woodson Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year and the Rodgers-Dwight Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year awards. Following his impressive junior year, DeJean declared for the 2024 NFL Draft.
Professional Career with the Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles selected Cooper DeJean in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft with the 40th overall pick. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the team. In his rookie season, DeJean quickly established himself as a key player in the Eagles’ secondary. He recorded 51 total tackles, 0.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and six pass deflections during the regular season.
DeJean’s most significant moment of his rookie year came during Super Bowl LIX. On his 22nd birthday, he intercepted a pass from Kansas City Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown. This was the first-ever interception by an Eagles player in a Super Bowl and a pivotal play in their 40-22 victory. For his outstanding performance throughout his first season, DeJean was a finalist for the AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
Cooper DeJean Personal Life & Family
Cooper DeJean was raised in a close-knit and athletic family. His parents are Jason and Katie DeJean. Both of his parents were collegiate athletes; his father played basketball, and his mother was an All-American basketball player. He has a younger brother named Jaxx, who also plays football. DeJean is a Christian and has spoken about the importance of his faith in keeping him grounded. He is currently in a relationship with Steph Wilfawn, who he appears to have met during his time at the University of Iowa.
Awards and Achievements of Cooper DeJean
- Super Bowl champion (LIX)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2024)
- Unanimous All-American (2023)
- Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year (2023)
- Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year (2023)
- 2× First-team All-Big Ten (2022, 2023)
- Music City Bowl MVP (2022)
- All-American Bowl Adidas Player of the Year (2021)
Cooper DeJean Net Worth and Income
As of early 2025, Cooper DeJean’s net worth is estimated to be around $9.28 million. His primary source of income is his NFL contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, which is a four-year deal worth $9,283,622. This contract includes a signing bonus of $3,571,724 and $5,831,021 in guaranteed money. In addition to his NFL salary, DeJean has several endorsement deals with brands such as Abbott, Checkers and Rally’s, Cooper Cheese, Pilot 24 Cards, MidWestOne Bank, and Barstool Sports.
Legacy and Influence
Despite being early in his professional career, Cooper DeJean has already made a significant impact. His journey from a small town in Iowa to a Super Bowl champion is an inspirational story of dedication and talent. He is known for his versatility, athleticism, and high football IQ. Off the field, DeJean is recognized for his humble and grounded personality. He has participated in various community service and charitable events, reflecting a commitment to giving back.
Interesting Facts about Cooper DeJean
- He scored a touchdown in the Super Bowl on his 22nd birthday, becoming the first player to do so in a championship game since 1947.
- In high school, he nearly surpassed future NFL tight end T.J. Hockenson on Iowa’s all-time high school basketball scoring list.
- He recorded the fastest 100-meter dash time in the state of Iowa during his senior year of high school.
- His hometown of Odebolt, Iowa, has no traffic lights.
- He co-hosts a podcast with teammate Reed Blankenship called ‘Exciting Mics’.
Social Media Presence
Cooper DeJean maintains an active presence on social media, where he shares updates about his career and personal life with his fans.
- Instagram: @cooperdejean
Final Words about Cooper DeJean
Cooper DeJean’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From a multi-sport prodigy in a small Iowa town to a Super Bowl hero for the Philadelphia Eagles, he has consistently demonstrated an elite level of talent and a strong work ethic. His versatility on the field and his grounded nature off it suggest a long and successful career ahead. As he continues to develop his skills in the NFL, Cooper DeJean is poised to become one of the premier defensive players in the league, building upon an already impressive legacy.
