In the 2024 NFL season, Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean made a significant impact by returning a Patrick Mahomes Super Bowl interception pick-six during Super Bowl LIX. This crucial play came in the championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs and shifted momentum in favor of the Eagles.
DeJean’s Emergence as a Defensive Starter and Key Playmaker
Cooper DeJean’s rookie season progressed impressively as he earned a starting role midway through the year. Although he did not record any interceptions during the regular season, his role as the nickel cornerback alongside Quinyon Mitchell and Darius Slay was important in Philadelphia’s defensive setup. His interception return in the Super Bowl, however, became his defining moment, marking his first career interception and turning the tide for the Eagles.
During the game, DeJean intercepted a pass from Patrick Mahomes and ran it back for a touchdown, extending the Eagles’ lead to a three-possession advantage just before halftime. The moment was highlighted by images of DeJean crossing the goal line with Mahomes in close pursuit, underscoring the play’s game-changing significance.
Contributions to Philadelphia’s Dominant Super Bowl Victory
Philadelphia’s defense continued to pressure Mahomes, forcing a second interception in the first half when linebacker Zack Baun picked off the quarterback near the end zone. The Eagles capitalized on these turnovers to build a commanding 24-0 lead by halftime. In the second half, Philadelphia controlled the clock effectively and secured a 40-22 victory over the Chiefs, claiming the championship in Super Bowl LIX.
Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio’s Plans for DeJean’s Versatility in 2025
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio shared insights during the team’s mandatory minicamp about DeJean’s potential role expansion next season. Fangio expressed his desire to continue utilizing DeJean at nickel corner but also explore options to play him in different positions when the defense does not employ three cornerbacks on the field.
“We’d like to keep him at nickel, and then in our base package we’ll find a spot for him, either at corner or safety,” Fangio said. “A lot of it will end up depending on how the other guys develop and where we most need him.
“It will be determined by what’s best for him and what’s best for the team—and what’s best for the team will win out in that decision. But he’s capable of playing corner and he’s capable of playing safety.”
With Darius Slay’s departure to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Fangio has additional flexibility to reconfigure the defensive secondary. DeJean’s demonstrated ability to adapt makes him a promising asset for these potential changes in 2025.
Outlook for DeJean and the Eagles’ Defensive Strategy
Cooper DeJean’s breakthrough moment in the Super Bowl highlights his growing importance within the Eagles’ defense. As the team enters the offseason and prepares for next year’s campaign, his versatility and playmaking potential offer Philadelphia new opportunities to innovate in their defensive schemes. With Fangio’s thoughtful approach, DeJean could become a key contributor in multiple roles, helping the Eagles maintain a strong defensive unit moving forward.