Move over, Caitlin Clark—there's another Iowa legend solidifying his legacy in the Hawkeye State. Former Iowa Hawkeyes star and current Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Cooper DeJean is receiving one of the highest honors a homegrown athlete can get: an award named in his honor.
The newly established Cooper DeJean Trophy will be awarded annually to the top high school football player in Iowa, forever linking DeJean's name to the state's future gridiron greats. It's a fitting tribute for a player whose journey from small-town standout to NFL champion reads like a movie script.
DeJean's rise is the ultimate underdog story. Hailing from Odebolt, Iowa—a town of roughly 920 people—he dominated as a four-sport athlete at OABCIG High School before becoming a fan favorite in Iowa City. His knack for game-changing plays on defense and special teams made him a star, and his legend only grew after he was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles.
In a storybook rookie season, DeJean sealed his place in NFL lore by returning an interception for a touchdown against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, helping the Eagles secure a Super Bowl victory. Almost overnight, he became a household name and a symbol of what's possible with hard work and dedication.
Now, his name will inspire the next generation. The inaugural Cooper DeJean Trophy will be presented on April 12 at 4 p.m. CT at the Talons of Tuscany Golf Club in Ankeny, Iowa. For young athletes across the state, the award stands as a powerful reminder: no matter where you start, greatness is within reach.