Cooper DeJean has come a long way since making his debut with the Philadelphia Eagles a month ago. The final preseason game was a mixed bag for DeJean, who was still trying to catch up after missing the first three weeks training camp with a hamstring injury.
“I looked pretty uncomfortable because this was my first action,” DeJean said. “Some of my techniques, I look back at them with a smile. Compared to now, it was pretty bad.”
DeJean nearly allowed two touchdowns in the preseason finale, knowing he had to go back to the film room to study his technique. The Eagles would give DeJean reps, but he needed more time to hone his craft.
Luckily, they didn’t have to throw DeJean in the fire. The Eagles had Avonte Maddox to take the reins for the first few weeks, but defensive coordinator Vic Fangio appears willing to give DeJean a more important role — perhaps the starting cornerback job.
“Since I got here and started learning that position, I’ve asked him questions every day, and he’s been willing enough to help me learn that position,” DeJean said of Maddox. ‘Every day he answers all my questions.
“It was good to see him on tape, and see how he goes about it, and ask him what he sees on certain coverages, certain plays. So it was good to have an experienced guy like him to to learn from.”
DeJean has prepared as if he will play against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, even though the Eagles don’t want to release any information about if he will start. He has been busy lately, taking over punt return duties Great Britain Covey is out as they prepare for a bigger role on defense.
There’s a lot on DeJean’s plate.
“It’s what I did in college: return punts, play defense, play on special teams,” DeJean said. “Obviously it’s a little different in the NFL, but I think it’s been good.
“My biggest thing was actually learning how the defense works. The special teams stuff comes naturally in a lot of ways.”
Getting used to the NFL lifestyle is a challenge for any newcomer. DeJean seems to have a handle on things as his role expands.
“I think it’s just going out there and seeing it, really,” DeJean said. “To see where I need to be in certain coverages in our defense, and to get an idea of where my backup will be on every call. Know where my backup is and know where everyone is on the field. This gives me a better understanding of how to play my man and also different leverages.”
That test will probably come on Sunday.
