Cooper DeJean's versatility could unlock a surprise rookie contributor

USA Today

25-07-2025

A lesser-mentioned and sometimes forgotten rookie may benefit most from Cooper DeJean's versatility.
As people age, they become wiser. Well, that's how it should work, but we all know that isn't always the case. Younger Philadelphia Eagles fans, at times, believe they can run a professional football team and coach because they have mastered the franchise mode on EA's Madden NFL game.
Older and more seasoned Birds fans understand that Howie Roseman, Vic Fangio, and Jeff Stoutland have forgotten more about how to do their jobs than most will ever know. There are times, however, when it's easier to follow along with what those guys are doing because, regardless of one's trade, there are some rules that always seem to translate.
Cooper DeJean's versatility may eventually unlock the early contribution of an under-the-radar rookie.
Often, in any workspace, the key to being promoted is proving one has talents that extend beyond their job description. That usually also helps players on the football field.
Studying Vic Fangio and Jeff Stoutland, it has become apparent over time that they, too, admire guys who are skilled at playing more than one position.
Cooper DeJean is an obvious example. Before ever playing a snap at the professional level, he took practice reps at safety and as both an outside and slot cornerback. Last season, he settled into the slot as a starter.
Now, there are whispers that there may also be a desire to increase his gameday snaps by lining him up as a safety in Philadelphia's base defensive package. No one plays in the base much anymore, as so many NFL offenses deploy three wide receivers. That coincidentally forces more defenses to play more nickel coverage (three cornerbacks and two safeties).
Still, you can understand the theory. Hopefully, that gets DeJean on the field for another ten or more snaps a game, but here's the wildcard. That may also open the door slightly for rookie Mac McWilliams.
Coach Fangio spoke with the media before Philadelphia's second training camp practice. He spoke highly of Philly's rookie corner. Frankly, few haven't. He seems a natural cover guy and a nice option for the slot.
Now, we get it. Overreactions at this time of year are common. Still, there is certainly something here worth exploring, especially if McWilliams continues progressing, and there is a desire to get him on the field early.
Philadelphia doesn't need to rush. They have capable safeties in Reed Blankenship, Sydney Brown, Andrew Mukuba, and Tristin McCollum. We'll see how they value Lewis Cine and Andre' Sam. Knowing DeJean can also play the position is a luxury. He figures to remain in the slot as the starter.
That means McWilliams will, more than likely, be relegated to backup duty. It's safe to assume he likely won't be cracking the starting lineup by Week 1. Heck, he may not start a game all season. Still, it shouldn't shock anyone if he finds his way onto the field and contributes valuable snaps at some point.
He has that level of talent, and DeJean's versatility could be the vehicle to create that opportunity. The options are seemingly endless for Vic Fangio's defense, and that's a good thing.