Cooper Dejan Reflects on His Rookie Season with the Eagles

Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper Dejan can’t help but smile when he thinks about his rookie season. It wasn’t a straightforward path for him, as he grappled with various challenges typical in the NFL. In a recent conversation, Dejan shared that the biggest takeaway from his experience is the importance of navigating uncertainty, something he anticipates will be crucial moving forward into 2025 and beyond.

He noted, “It’s a long season and with injuries, it changes week to week.” Dejan emphasized the need for the defense to adapt quickly, especially when parts of the team might be missing. “You really notice the differences when you’re playing alongside new teammates each week,” he added.

His journey began when the Eagles selected him as a second-round pick. However, he faced a tough start, suffering an injury early in training camp. After recovering, Dejan primarily played special teams until he finally got to start in the sixth week of the season. It was then that he made his mark, recording six tackles and providing a boost in the punt return game.

By this time, Dejan had earned the trust of both head coach Nick Sirianni and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, alongside fellow rookie cornerback Quy Nhon Mitchell. He was pivotal in the Eagles’ Super Bowl run, playing consistently even during high-stakes games. One standout moment came when he made his first career interception, a sensational 38-yard pick-six off Patrick Mahomes.

Reflecting on the season, Dejan remarked, “I think it was crazy. It ended with a Super Bowl victory, and my play was even wilder.” Though he’s still in his second year, he feels his confidence is growing as he looks ahead to 2025. He aims to take more of a leadership role within the cornerback group, drawing from the guidance of experienced players like Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown.

“Me and Q went through a lot together last year, and it was significant for us,” he noted. “It has built our confidence to step up as leaders in the room.” He acknowledged that the journey of growth has been both fun and instructional.

As he gears up for the upcoming season, Dejan is eager for the opening game against the Dallas Cowboys, while still focusing on the Eagles’ preparations. One tradition he’s looking forward to? Enjoying a breakfast pizza from Casey’s, a favorite from his childhood in Iowa. “There’s something about having breakfast pizza before school. It just gets you energized,” he reminisced, excited for this season’s midday kickoffs.

With the college football season kicking off, Dejan is eager to relive those moments, especially when his go-to breakfast awaits. After all, breakfast pizza is a staple he’s cherished for years.