Eagles DC Vic Fangio: Rookie Cooper DeJean still not ready

Fans hoping to see more of 2024 second-round draft pick Cooper DeJean will have to wait a little longer.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio addressed a number of topics during his media availability on Thursday, including DeJean’s lack of playing time to start the season. DeJean played just one snap against the Atlanta Falcons, stepping in at the nickel position after starter Avonte Maddox was briefly injured.

DeJean’s role going forward? Just that — Maddox’s backup at the nickel position, Fangio said.

“The first week he started as a dime DB (defensive back),” the coach added. “So he had to learn the dime and be the backup nickel. With all that time he’s lost, we’re going to put him on the nickel and see if he can make enough progress there.”

That’s been the problem with DeJean so far this season: a inconsistent lack of progress.

DeJean missed the first three weeks of training camp with a hamstring injury, eventually making his debut during a joint practice with the New England Patriots on Aug. 13. He was a limited participant in that session and missed the preseason game two days later. The 21-year-old was able to increase his participation in practice the following week and start in the preseason home finale against the Minnesota Vikings, but his role in Fangio’s defense has been in flux since then.

There’s a tailspin at outside cornerback right now, with guys like Isaiah Rodgers and Kelee Ringo on the outside looking in behind starters Darius Slay and Quinyon Mitchell. The nickel spot is the quickest route to playing time, but it would likely take an injury to Maddox or one of the safeties before DeJean can get on the field for meaningful reps anytime soon.

It all adds up to a frustrating pro debut for DeJean, who excelled as a defensive back at Iowa and was expected to immediately help Philly’s struggling pass defense with the 40th overall pick. Fangio hasn’t given him much playing time since his hamstring injury, and there’s reason to be concerned about the rookie’s progress in the 38 days (and counting) since his return.

To be fair, for a team sorely lacking in safety depth, it’s a bit of a red flag that DeJean hasn’t been able to take over the nickel job for Maddox, who played safety during training camp. Fangio clearly has more faith in the veteran, and that leaves the rookie sidelined for Week 3 against the New Orleans Saints.

MORE EAGLES NEWS:

Eagles expected to sign six-time Pro Bowler to help struggling defense

Eagles fans are (rightly) convinced: Bill Belichick wants Howie Roseman’s selection

NFL Predictions, Week 3: Philadelphia Eagles at New Orleans Saints

AJ Brown Injury Update: Latest on Star Eagles WR’s Status for Week 3

Ex-Eagles 1st round pick trolls Pats on IG, promptly released