Eagles Draft: PFF names standout Iowa defensive back as someone to watch for Philly

It’s never too early to start looking ahead to Draft Season. For the Philadelphia Eagles, the 2024 NFL Draft will be their opportunity to redefine what their defense is going to look like for next 5-10 years.

As of now, Howie Roseman has nine picks to play with, including five in the top-150. Expect the majority of those picks to go towards Vic Fangio’s defense, for obvious reasons. Aside from Jalen Carter, the Eagles don’t have any players they can build around on the defensive side of the ball. Their best defensive players are all north of 30, and some of those guys like Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham may not even be back next year.

Nearly every defensive position could use some love come draft night, but if we had to single out one position group that needs the most attention, it’s the defensive backs. Pro Football Focus feels the same way, which is why they pointed to standout Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean as a name to watch for the Eagles.

PFF on Coop DeJean’s fit with the Eagles:

“DeJean is one of the most well-rounded athletes in college football. He can play outside cornerback, slot cornerback and even safety due to his size (6-foot-1 and 205 pounds) and speed combo. He also has some of the best ball skills of any defensive back in the class. He’s one of the draft’s top playmakers.“

DeJean’s versatility could be his strongest attribute, especially playing in a Fangio defense. Fangio asks a lot of his defensive backs, so having a guy who can lineup anywhere across the formation effectively is a huge plus. And it gives the Eagles the flexibility to play him wherever they feel he’ll thrive the most.

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NFL Draft insider Daniel Jeremiah also had glowing reviews for DeJean in his recent top-50 big board.

“DeJean is a playmaking cornerback with size and speed. In off coverage, he plays with his butt to the sideline and displays excellent vision. He does have a brief pause in his plant/drive before exploding and attacking the football. His production — including three pick-sixes in the 2022 season — speaks for itself. He has enough speed to carry vertical routes, but he will panic on occasion and get grabby at the catch point. He’s an outstanding blitzer, displaying timing and burst to close in a hurry. He is very willing in run support, and he’s a dependable tackler. He is also an exceptional punt returner because of his combination of speed, elusiveness and bravery. Overall, I believe DeJean could stick at cornerback, but I wouldn’t rule out a move to safety, where his strengths as a player would be featured. He reminds me of a bigger Eric Weddle coming out of college.”

By all accounts, this dude just makes plays. He’s been labeled as a playmaker by nearly every scout I’ve listened to. And this is the stat that really sold me on it – DeJean scored more touchdowns than any Iowa receiver last season with his three pick-sixes.

At No. 22 overall, the Eagles should be in prime position to snag DeJean in the first-round. I imagine his draft stock will continue to rise as we inch closer to draft night because of his athletic ability, but I don’t know if it’ll get a big enough boost to put him out of the Eagles’ range. Keep an eye on this guy throughout the coming months

Cooper DeJean 2023 Highlights

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