If Cooper DeJean declares for the 2024 NFL draft, which he should to the dismay of some Iowa Hawkeyes’ fans, he is putting together an incredibly strong case to be the next Hawkeye drafted in the first round.
His coverage is elite, his ability to make plays on the ball in the air is highly instinctual, and his electric playmaking when the ball gets in his hands is something you can’t teach. It doesn’t hurt that he is freakishly athletic as well.
All of those traits paired with his film are building for Cooper DeJean to be taken in the first round next April. CBS Sports’ most recent mock draft has DeJean headed to a storied NFL franchise, the San Francisco 49ers.
The ball-hawking DeJean can line up just about anywhere (and he’s an asset in the return game, too), and that versatility and rare athleticism are what make him such an enticing prospect. – Ryan Wilson, CBS Sports
The pipeline from Iowa City to San Francisco is already paved as well. It is a road that has been traveled and done so with great success. Should this move come to fruition, DeJean would join 49ers tight end and Iowa legend George Kittle, who would surely welcome the young playmaker with open arms.
DeJean would be joining a secondary room that currently features five cornerbacks with three or more years of experience. This would allow DeJean the opportunity to come in and learn as he transitions to the NFL.
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