Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Following the selection of Quinyon Mitchell in the first round of the NFL Draft, the Eagles made another bold move by trading up to pick Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean in the second round. The Eagles are aiming to revamp their secondary by adding young and promising talents like Mitchell and DeJean, reminiscent of the 2002 draft when they selected Lito Sheppard and Sheldon Brown.

In exchange for their two second-round selections and a fifth-round pick, the Eagles acquired the 40th and 78th picks along with another fifth-round selection from the Commanders. This strategic trade showcases Howie Roseman’s commitment to strengthening the team’s defensive backfield.

The Eagles’ decision to draft two cornerbacks in the first two rounds is a departure from their usual draft strategy in the past 20 years. With the addition of DeJean and Mitchell, the Eagles are addressing their struggles in the previous season, where they ranked poorly in pass defense.

DeJean, a standout player from Iowa, demonstrated his prowess with five interceptions and multiple pass breakups in the 2022 and 2023 seasons, respectively. Known for his exceptional ball skills and physicality, DeJean aims to contribute to the Eagles’ defense in various positions within the secondary.

The Eagles’ cornerback room now features a mix of experienced veterans like Darius Slay and James Bradberry, paired with promising young talents such as DeJean, Mitchell, and a duo of rookies from the 2023 draft class. This blend of youth and experience bodes well for the team’s future in the competitive NFC East division.

DeJean’s versatility and competitive drive make him a valuable addition to the Eagles’ defense, as he aims to make an impact alongside his fellow cornerbacks. With a focus on bolstering their defensive lineup in recent drafts, the Eagles are positioning themselves to compete at a high level in the upcoming seasons.