In a surprising turn of events, Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean has announced his retirement from the NFL, just weeks after a standout performance in Super Bowl LIX. DeJean, who was instrumental in the Eagles’ 40–22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, returned an interception for a 38-yard touchdown during the championship game, marking a highlight in his rookie season.
Drafted 40th overall by the Eagles in the 2024 NFL Draft, DeJean quickly established himself as a versatile and reliable defensive back. Throughout the regular season, he recorded 51 tackles, forced one fumble, and recovered three others. His exceptional performance earned him a finalist spot for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
DeJean’s retirement comes as a shock to both fans and the organization, especially given his rapid ascent and pivotal role in the Eagles’ recent Super Bowl triumph. The team has yet to release an official statement regarding his decision, and DeJean has not publicly disclosed his reasons for retiring at this juncture.
As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, DeJean’s unexpected departure leaves a notable vacancy in their secondary lineup. The organization will need to assess their defensive roster and consider potential moves to fill the gap left by the promising young cornerback.