Raiders NFL Draft Prospect: CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa

The Las Vegas Raiders are looking to add young talent through the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Raiders have built a culture and identity on the backs of their defense, playing a physical, competitive brand of football that helped them win games in the second half of the season under now-head coach Antonio Pierce.

While the Raiders have several strong defensive pieces already, they could find their next No. 1 cornerback in this class. Thankfully for Las Vegas, there are several possible candidates.

One of those players is Iowa’s Cooper DeJean. One of the best athletes in this class, DeJean was one of the best defensive players in the draft and should be drafted highly.

DeJean concluded his storied Hawkeyes career with 120 total tackles, five tackles for loss, 13 passes defended, and seven interceptions. DeJean contributed on special teams as well, totaling 406 return yards and a touchdown.

DeJean was a decorated player in his time with the Hawkeyes. He was a unanimous All-American in 2023 and was named the Tatum-Woodson Defensive Back of the Year, given to the best defensive back in the Big Ten. DeJean became the sixth Hawkeye in the last 13 years to win it. He was also a two-time First-Team All-Big Ten member.

DeJean has NFL size for a cornerback at 6-foot-1 and 207 pounds. He has solid muscle and a well-built frame. His technique and athleticism may be the best out of all the corners in the draft class, with a smooth backpedal and quick hips.

He may be the best coverage cornerback in the draft as well. According to Pro Football Focus, DeJean was targeted 46 times and allowed just 20 receptions for 194 yards, no touchdowns, and two interceptions in 2023.

DeJean’s frame may cause him trouble moving laterally. He has solid, but not game-breaking speed and could get beat by some of the league’s faster wide receivers.

The Raiders could be in the market for a No. 1 cornerback, and DeJean could be that guy. He will likely be available when the Raiders select at No. 13 overall in the first round, and if they believe in his athleticism, tools, and IQ, DeJean could be the missing piece to put their defense over the top.

From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.

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