Eagles Cornerback Celebrates Birthday with Historic Pick-Six in Super Bowl Win

NEW ORLEANS, La. — Philadelphia Eagles rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean made NFL history on February 10, 2025, when he intercepted Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, returning it for a touchdown. The impressive play occurred during Super Bowl LIX, marking both DeJean’s first career interception and the first pick-six scored by a player on their birthday.

During the game, which the Eagles won 40-22, DeJean’s pivotal interception came midway through the second quarter with just seven minutes left on the clock. After grabbing the pass at midfield, he dashed 38 yards into the end zone, bringing the Eagles’ lead to 17-0 and electrifying the Superdome crowd.

“COOPER DEJEAN PICK TO THE HOUSE!” exclaimed the NFL’s social media, highlighting the unforgettable moment. DeJean’s rarity of scoring a touchdown on one’s birthday at the Super Bowl added to the excitement of his personal milestone.

The 22-year-old cornerback, selected 40th overall in the previous year’s draft from the University of Iowa, showcased his remarkable talent throughout the season after being named a unanimous All-American and one of the nation’s best defensive backs. Coming into the Super Bowl without any interceptions in the regular season only heightened the significance of this achievement, underscoring his versatility in play.

In the Eagles’ historic win, they aimed to prevent the Chiefs from achieving their unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl victory. This game served as a measure of redemption for Philadelphia after their close defeat to Kansas City the previous year, where they lost 38-35 in a dramatic finish.

“Defense wins championships; we saw the difference they made,” Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts said, emphasizing the team’s defensive strength following the game. Hurts himself had a standout performance, earning MVP honors by throwing for 221 yards and rushing for a touchdown.

DeJean’s performance was complemented by hard work from the Eagles’ defense, which forced Mahomes into three turnovers and recorded six sacks throughout the game. Mahomes finished with 257 passing yards but struggled as he trailed 34-0 before scoring two late touchdowns.

The collective efforts of the Eagles team—from their defense to Hurts and the offensive line—ensured that history did not repeat itself on this significant occasion. DeJean’s exceptional play not only cemented his name in NFL lore but also delighted fans back home in Odebolt, Iowa, who celebrated his moment in the national spotlight.

After the game, DeJean reflected on his achievements, acknowledging the support he received from coaches and family. “I wouldn’t be playing the way I am without those guys, all they’ve poured into me,” he noted, underlining the role of community in shaping his career.

Super Bowl LIX ended with an ecstatic Eagles fan base celebrating their victory, chanting “Cooooooooop” throughout the stadium, a callback to DeJean’s college days at Iowa where his name was often sung during games. This historic day not only marked DeJean’s birthday but also anchored his legacy as one of the standout young talents reshaping the NFL.