Eagles rookie Cooper DeJean to begin career at nickel/corner position

The Eagles traded up ten picks to select Iowa DB Cooper DeJean in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

DeJean’s ability to play all three positions in the secondary appealed to Philadelphia, where he’ll be paired with first-round CB Quinyon Mitchell.

“I think whatever he does he’s going to do at a high level,” GM Howie Roseman said to the Philadelphia Inquirer. “Obviously we’ll get him in here, and like everything else on this team, see how the pieces fit when coach [Nick Sirianni] and his staff get their hands on these guys.”

Despite his versatility, the Eagles won’t overwhelm DeJean right away and have him learn one position to begin his career.

During an appearance on the Up and Adams Show, DeJean noted that he’s starting at the corner position in rookie minicamp instead of safety.

#Eagles 2nd rd pick Cooper DeJean confirms he's starting off at the corner position and could return kicks as well 👀🦅 #FlyEaglesFly @cdejean23 @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/CRVMBdR4jY

— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) May 8, 2024

 “I really talked all three positions with them [the Eagles], how I worked mostly the nickel and corner position at rookie minicamp.

But there’s been talks about safety during the pre-draft [process], and returning as well — wherever they put me, I’ll be excited. I’m excited for the opportunity to start at the corner position — that’s where I’m starting out, the nickel and corner position, yeah”.

Six-time Pro Bowler Darius Slay and Quinyon Mitchell are penciled in as the Week 1 starters, with James Bradberry behind them.

DeJean will likely compete with veteran nickel Avonte Maddox for playing time.

Over his last two seasons at Iowa, DeJean recorded 82 tackles, seven interceptions, and 13 pass breakups.

Quinyon and DeJean looking smooth already. pic.twitter.com/ueL3MhricV

— Victor Williams (@ThePhillyPod) May 4, 2024

Mandatory Credit: Philadelphia Eagles