Cooper DeJean exemplifies versatility in the world of sports. This 22-year-old defensive back for the Philadelphia Eagles has established himself not only on the football field but also as a standout athlete in various sports during his high school years. He excelled in every discipline—football, basketball, and track—showcasing skills that underscored his extraordinary talent. His basketball capabilities were so impressive that they once inspired dreams of a career in that realm.
While Cooper still relishes the occasional pick-up game, he ultimately dedicated himself to football, a choice that has proven to be immensely rewarding. At such a young age, he has already secured a Super Bowl championship, a milestone that many veteran players aspire to throughout their careers. This achievement isn’t merely a point of pride; it reflects his commitment, fervor, and hard work.
Reflecting on his high school basketball highlights reveals just how promising his future in that sport could have been. His combination of athletic ability and a fierce competitive spirit made him a formidable presence on the court.
So, what prompted him to pivot away from basketball? The answer lies not just in his talent but in practicality. As he shared in a recent *Pardon My Take* episode, “Coming into high school, I wanted to play basketball in college. But I’m not quite tall enough, and I’m built more like a football player… I played basketball like a football player… driving to the hoop and trying to dunk on everybody.”
This level of self-awareness is commendable. Initially, DeJean set his sights on a basketball scholarship and invested significant energy into the sport. However, he soon recognized that his style of play and physique were more suited to football. By his sophomore year, as college football recruiters began to take notice of his talents, the path forward became clear.
It’s worth noting that Cooper’s journey, while singular, reflects a pattern seen in many athletes who switch from basketball to football. For example, Antonio Gates, a Hall of Fame tight end, led Kent State to the Elite Eight in the 2002 NCAA Tournament before making his mark in the NFL. Mo Alie-Cox, currently with the Indianapolis Colts, also transitioned from a strong basketball career at Virginia Commonwealth University to football.
Interestingly, there appears to be a trend of athletes moving from basketball to football, particularly for positions like tight end. Pro Bowlers like Jimmy Graham and Julius Thomas have made that transition successfully, illustrating that this unconventional route can result in thriving NFL careers.
Further testament to this trend are stars like Tony Gonzalez and Julius Peppers, who significantly impacted college basketball prior to their NFL success. Gonzalez even made it to the Sweet Sixteen, while Peppers shined in the Final Four. Yet, when it comes to football accolades, none of these legends quite match what DeJean has already accomplished—a Super Bowl ring—before reaching his 23rd birthday.
Cooper DeJean’s narrative serves as a reminder that success is not solely defined by how one begins their journey but by the choices made along the way. Though he may not possess the height or weight of some other high-profile dual-sport athletes, his determination and drive have already distinguished him. For DeJean, if earning a championship ring meant leaving behind a basketball career, he would gladly make that trade any day, especially considering the bragging rights that come with being a champion.
