Cooper DeJean Eyes Safety Role with Eagles as Season Approaches

PHILADELPHIA — Cooper DeJean, the promising cornerback for the Philadelphia Eagles, is set to explore a new role as safety as he enters his second NFL season. This pivot comes as Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio seeks to maximize DeJean’s versatility on the field.

After a standout rookie year primarily in the slot, DeJean has begun practicing as the first-team safety in base defense. “From Day 1, I’ve tried to learn all three positions,” DeJean explained. “If it comes to a point where they put me out there, I feel prepared to do that.”

Fangio emphasized the importance of keeping DeJean on the field during various defensive packages, stating, “Just like I thought, he can be a good safety. Just the other day we had a route that we struggled with last year in games, and he did it like he’d been a safety his whole life.”

Despite having played only one snap at safety during his college career at Iowa, DeJean’s performance in practice has impressed coaches. Last season, he was the only defender in the NFL to allow zero touchdowns while limiting opponents to 5.0 or fewer yards per attempt in coverage.

Fangio’s strategy aims to enhance takeaways, a crucial element as the Eagles strive to improve their defensive statistics. The team recorded 26 takeaways in the last season, ranking sixth in the league. “I’m definitely starting to feel more comfortable,” DeJean remarked about his transition to safety.

However, the Eagles have also highlighted defensive depth concerns. Sydney Brown and rookie Drew Mukuba are vying for the safety position opposite Reed Blankenship, and with Mukuba recovering from an injury, DeJean’s ability to play multiple positions may be invaluable.

While the Eagles are excited about the potential for DeJean at safety, they will continue to rely on his strong performance as a cornerback. Preseason games will offer DeJean opportunities to showcase his skills in both roles as the team prepares for the regular season.

As the Eagles finalize their defensive strategy, DeJean’s adaptability and readiness could define his role and influence the team’s success in the upcoming NFL season.