Cooper DeJean was a major reason the Eagles only lost one game after the Week 5 bye, and the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist is already one of the most versatile defenders in the NFL. After Philadelphia saw Darius Slay (Steelers), Isaiah Rodgers (Vikings), Avonte Maddox (Lions), and James Bradberry (UFA) all exit, there was talk of DeJean moving to the outside cornerback spot opposite Quinyon Mitchell.
On Wednesday, Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio was a special guest of the Phillies and watched Philadelphia defeat Colorado 4-1 to remain in first place. During a brief conversation with John Clark of NBC Sports, Fangio was asked about a potential position switch for DeJean, and shot that idea down.
“I really like him as the nickel. I’d like to see him stay at nickel. He plays it very well. He’s got good size in there. I think he enjoys playing in that position.“
The news means Kelee Ringo, Adoree' Jackson, and Eli Ricks will be among the early contenders to win a competition.
DeJean logged 51 tackles (38 solo) as a rookie, including 0.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and three fumble recoveries across 16 regular-season games in 2024. DeJean's biggest and best moment came in Super Bowl LIX against the Chiefs, when he picked off Patrick Mahomes for a 38-yard interception return for a touchdown on his birthday.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Vic Fangio plans to keep Cooper DeJean in the Nickel Cornerback spot
