Second-round rookie Cooper DeJean has been a revelation for the Philadelphia Eagles since becoming a full-time starter two weeks ago. It hasn’t just been at cornerback either.
With the injury to punt returner Britain Covey, the Eagles have trotted out DeJean to also be their top returner.
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While the Iowa star has already shown an affinity for special teams, not everyone is pleased that DeJean is playing on two different aspects of the game.
“NaVorro Bowman, going back to my San Francisco days, who was an All-Pro there for three straight years. He covered every punt for us for three straight years,” defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said. “I didn’t like that, either. Just got to deal with it.”
While Fangio has openly stated his displeasure for DeJean playing special teams due to his skill on defense, special teams coordinator Michael Clay has pushed for the all-around athlete to be a part of both sides without any issue.
Even if Covey comes back healthy in the coming weeks.
“He’s kind of shockingly more stout than people give him credit for,” Clay said. “…Just like anything else, for a young guy like him, he’s trying to make the most of the opportunity and he’s doing a great job.
“It’s always a luxury when you have two viable options back there.”
DeJean’s impact on the Eagles roster is already extremely important. Even if not every coach wants him playing two different positions overall.
