Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean is a dynamic defender in the 2024 NFL Draft. The No. 47 overall prospect in our latest TDN100 update, DeJean is a versatile and physical playmaker who should appeal to multiple defensive coordinators for his ability to thrive in different coverage schemes.
DeJean is expected to be a big-time performer at the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine. If the numbers reach the projections we've heard, DeJean will have established himself as a first-round pick. The Oldebolt, Iowa native will display outstanding athletic traits.
Combing through DeJean's tape reveals a tenacious and relentless perimeter defender. DeJean especially thrived in zone coverage where his football IQ and excellent downhill trigger led to seven interceptions over the previous two seasons. Teams will appreciate DeJean's nose for the football. With that in mind, we've identified three ideal team fits.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
DeJean's read-and-react ability in zone coverage feels like it was tailor-made for Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley and his patented Cover 3 scheme. Bradley has added a quarters-style defense to his back pocket, proving to be adaptable as his coaching career progresses. DeJean is an alignment-versatile cornerback who would move around as necessary as Bradley's system continues to evolve.
Colts general manager Chris Ballard also needs to keep adding talent to his ascending defensive backfield. The Colts fielded one of the youngest secondaries in 2023, relying on rookies like JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones to play a notable amount of snaps. Indianapolis' makeover at the cornerback position isn't yet complete. Adding DeJean may be the final piece of the puzzle.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
The Eagles’ defense fell off a cliff and there were end-of-season consequences. Both Sean Desai and Matt Patricia, who were oddly tasked with overseeing the defense throughout different stretches, have been removed. Head coach Nick Sirianni appointed Vic Fangio as his new defensive coordinator.The aging James Bradberry struggled mightily throughout 2023, but releasing or trading him would lead to significant dead cap charges. Fellow boundary corner Darius Slay isn't getting younger. General manager Howie Roseman needs to start adding young talent at cornerback.
Allowing a 31st-ranked 252.7 pass yards per contest signals that a clear retooling is required. Bradberry should have to earn his snaps in 2024. DeJean would immediately push for a starting role in Philadelphia.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Cornerback should appear on the shortlist of potential first-round picks with Jacksonville's No. 17 overall selection. The step backward taken by quarterback Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars' offense receives the majority blame for the franchise's disappointing 2023 campaign, but a 26th-ranked pass defense (239.8/contest) didn't do them any favors, either.
Head coach Doug Pederson has replaced defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell with Ryan Nielsen. Nielsen is coming off an impressive showing in the same role with the Atlanta Falcons. Between his time in New Orleans and Atlanta, Nielsen has coached some high-level cornerbacks like Marshon Lattimore and A.J. Terrell. More is needed behind Tyson Campbell and Darious Williams, who are both scheduled to enter the final year of their contracts in 2024. Campbell will probably sign an extension, but DeJean could be viewed as Williams' successor.
