Why this Eagles rookie CB could play a big role in 2024

Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean slid to the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the NFL Draft, one of the more notable falls for a prospect in this year's draft.

Interestingly, the Eagles doubled up at cornerback in the draft, selecting DeJean 40th overall after drafting another corner, Toledo's Quinyon Mitchell, with the 22nd pick. 

Known for strong draft classes recently, the Eagles drafted two of the best players at the team's greatest position of need. Per Pro Football Focus, DeJean was the eighth-best draft prospect while Mitchell landed at ninth.

There are several reasons DeJean fell to the Eagles, who traded up to get him.

The most obvious is his recent injury, as he suffered a fractured fibula during practice in mid-November. There are also concerns whether DeJean can compete as a boundary corner in the NFL, which potentially diminished his worth for teams that don’t value slot corners or safeties.

The nickel corner position is a surprisingly underappreciated, especially considering how pivotal it has become. Slot receivers are being used like never before, making their defensive counterparts all the more valuable. 

Trent McDuffie is a prime example of this, as he was essential to Kansas City’s recent Super Bowl win. In the 2023 draft class, CB Brian Branch fell to the Lions at 45, but he made an immediate impact for the NFC North champions.

Even if he can’t hang on the outside, DeJean (6-foot-1, 207 pounds) has all the makings of an elite slot corner. Proficient in zone defense, he provides a disruptive presence when positioned in the middle of the field. 

DeJean also has excellent ball skills, hauling in seven interceptions in college. These skills can absolutely impact the game from the slot, not just on the boundary.

Despite the concerns about him, DeJean could still cut it as an outside corner, too. His coverage skills are undeniable, as he didn’t give up a touchdown this past season and allowed only 20 receptions overall, according to Pro Football Focus.

The upside of his pairing with Mitchell is that both can be deployed in the role that best suits them.

DeJean could be a game-changer no matter where he’s placed, even on special teams. As a punt returner, he made a house call in the final minutes in a win over Michigan State last season.