NFL Draft Awaits - Cooper DeJean announces entry in the draft
Iowa Football's shining star, Cooper DeJean, has decided to take his talents to the next level. This All-American defensive back and punt returner, known for his game-changing plays and unparalleled agility, announced his declaration for the NFL Draft on Thursday.
With his departure, the Hawkeyes lose a stalwart from their lineup. DeJean, an Odebolt, Iowa native, bids farewell to his team after three remarkable seasons.
Analysts widely predict he will be a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft this April, a testament to his skill and impact on the field.
DeJean's Stellar College Football Career and Achievements
DeJean's journey on the field has been nothing short of spectacular. In his final season, he won unanimous consensus All-American honors despite missing four games due to a lower-body injury. Recognized as the Big Ten's Defensive Back and Return Specialist of the Year, his accolades reflect his resilient spirit and skill.
This dynamo recorded 41 tackles, 26 of them solo and 2.0 for loss, in addition to two interceptions and five pass break-ups on defense. His prowess as a return specialist is evident in his impressive 11.5 yards per return average on punt returns, amassing 241 yards, including a 70-yard long return and a touchdown. Notably, a controversial scoring return against Minnesota was called back.
His sophomore year was another milestone where DeJean intercepted five passes, returning three for touchdowns—an Iowa season record. His remarkable college career, filled with such definitive moments, clearly indicates his potential and the enormous value he can bring to the 2024 NFL teams.
Implications of DeJean's Departure for Iowa's 2024 Season
DeJean's departure undoubtedly leaves a significant void in the Hawkeyes' lineup for the 2024 season. His impact on both defense and special teams cannot be understated. However, the return of starters Jay Higgins, Luke Lachey, Jermari Harris, and Nick DeJong offers some comfort to the Hawkeyes and their fans. These players have shown promise in their previous seasons and will now have the opportunity to step up and fill the gap left by DeJean.
However, the Hawkeyes are still on tenterhooks, awaiting decisions from first-teamers Nick Jackson, Quinn Schulte, and Sebastian Castro. Their return could significantly impact the team's prospects and dynamics next season. It's also worth noting that the team is currently over the scholarship limit, which could influence these players' decisions.
DeJean’s draft prospects look promising. He stands as the No. 19 player overall on the NFL Draft Buzz board. These rankings attest to DeJean's exceptional skill set and his potential to achieve great things at the pro level. His loss will be deeply felt at Iowa, but his legacy will continue to inspire the team and the incoming talent.
The Financial Implications of DeJean's NFL Journey
Given the projections, Cooper DeJean's transition to the NFL could turn out to be an incredibly lucrative move. According to estimates, the No. 13 pick in this year's draft is forecasted to sign a deal potentially worth $17.5M with a substantial $9.7M signing bonus. Should DeJean secure the 17th selection instead, the numbers drop slightly to a still impressive $15.2M deal and an $8.0M signing bonus.
These figures not only highlight the financial benefits that DeJean stands to gain from his move to the NFL, but they also underscore the tremendous value that the league places on top-tier college talent. DeJean's anticipated draft position and the accompanying financial rewards reinforce the belief in his exceptional potential to make a significant impact at the professional level.
Looking Forward
Cooper DeJean's decision to enter the NFL Draft marks the end of an era for the Hawkeyes and the beginning of what promises to be an exciting professional career for this talented player.
His prowess on the field and consistent performance have earned him valuable recognition, paving the way for a potential first-round selection. The potential financial gain adds another layer of appeal to his decision, reflecting the high value attributed to his skills.
As DeJean prepares to embark on this new journey, the football world is eager to see where his path will lead. While his absence will indeed be felt at Iowa, his legacy will serve as a guiding light for the athletes following in his footsteps.