Mon Dec 02 00:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Eagles’ Second-Round Pick DeJean a “Steal” in 2024 NFL Draft
**Philadelphia, PA** – The Philadelphia Eagles’ second-round draft pick, cornerback Cooper DeJean, is proving to be one of the biggest steals of the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite projections placing him in the first round, DeJean fell to the Eagles at pick number 40, a consequence of a record-setting number of offensive players selected in the first round.
DeJean, a unanimous All-American and Big Ten Defensive and Return Specialist of the Year in 2023, has quickly become a key contributor to the Eagles’ top-ranked defense. He currently starts at nickel cornerback, recording 30 tackles and five passes defensed. His performance has been instrumental in the dramatic improvement of Philadelphia’s pass defense, which jumped from 31st last season to third this year.
The 33rd Team’s Jeff Diamond lauded DeJean as one of the draft’s biggest steals, highlighting his impact on a 9-2 Eagles team currently leading the NFC East. Pre-draft analysts, including Lance Zierlein, also recognized DeJean’s potential, praising his physical attributes and instincts.
The Eagles’ decision to draft two cornerbacks, DeJean and first-round pick Quinyon Mitchell, with their first two picks marks the first time the franchise has done so since 1986. This strategic move has paid off handsomely, solidifying their secondary and contributing significantly to their current seven-game winning streak. The Eagles are currently the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs, on track for their seventh postseason appearance in eight seasons.
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