Introduction

Cooper DeJean — the name resonates loudly in NFL circles as one of the youngest breakout talents of recent seasons. From a small farming town in Iowa to scoring a touchdown in the Super Bowl, Cooper DeJean has lived a story many dream of. In this article, we explore his hometown origins, the possible meaning behind his tattoo, any nickname he carries, and more.
Who is Cooper DeJean?
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Born on February 9, 2003, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
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Grew up in Odebolt, Iowa, a small farming community.
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Attended OABCIG High School (Ida Grove, Iowa).
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College football career at Iowa Hawkeyes (2021–2023).
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Drafted into the NFL in 2024 — 2nd round, 40th overall pick — by Philadelphia Eagles.
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Position: Cornerback (also plays special teams / return specialist).
From a modest upbringing, DeJean’s rise has been meteoric. Thanks to his athleticism, versatility, and grit — first displayed in high school and college — he is now making headlines in the NFL.
Hometown: Odebolt, Iowa — The Small Town with Big Dreams
Although born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Cooper DeJean was raised in Odebolt, Iowa.
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Odebolt population: approximately 920 people.
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The town was once known as the “Popcorn Capital of the World.”
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Odebolt — along with neighboring towns Arthur, Battle Creek, Ida Grove — feeds students into OABCIG High School.
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As a kid, DeJean reportedly drafted football plays and ran them with classmates at recess, showing early leadership and passion.
When his NFL success peaked — especially following his Super Bowl play — Odebolt rallied behind him. The small town planned a big “watch party + birthday celebration,” wearing jerseys and showing support.
DeJean’s story is a powerful reminder: even from a town of under 1,000 people, dreams can reach the biggest stages.
Tattoo Meaning — What Does Cooper DeJean’s Tattoo Represent?
One of the most personal and talked-about aspects of DeJean outside the field is his tattoo. As per reporting:
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On the inside of his right bicep, he has lettering that stands for “God is greater than the highs and the lows.”
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This tattoo reflects his faith and grounding belief that through ups and downs — whether in life or career — God remains greater.
The tattoo isn’t just body art — for DeJean, it appears to be a constant reminder of his values, humility, and perspective.
Nickname — Does Cooper DeJean Have One?
There doesn’t appear to be a widely recognized official “nickname” for Cooper DeJean in mainstream media or among fans as of now. However:
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Some fans and media have playfully referred to him as a “small-town hero,” or “farm-town underdog” turned NFL star, especially given his Odebolt roots.
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Given how rapidly his fame has grown after the Super Bowl, it’s possible affectionate nicknames will emerge with time.
So, for now — no enduring, universally accepted nickname.
Career Journey — From High School to Super Bowl Glory
High School Stardom
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At OABCIG High School, DeJean demonstrated his dual-threat: playing quarterback and defensive back.
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In his senior year, his offensive stats were phenomenal: thousands of passing yards, rushing touchdowns — turning heads well before the NFL.
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He helped lead his team to the Iowa state championship, delivering clutch plays: blocking an extra point, scoring the tying touchdown, then the go-ahead score — all within minutes.
College Years at Iowa
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Joined Iowa Hawkeyes in 2021. As a freshman, he played primarily on special teams.
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By 2022, he became a versatile starter: played cornerback, “cash” (hybrid safety/linebacker), and punt returner.
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His special teams and defensive contributions shone: big punt returns, interceptions returned for touchdowns, tackles, and game-changing plays.
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By 2023, he earned major honors: All-American, First-team All-Big Ten, and recognition as one of college football’s elite defensive backs.
Entering the NFL — 2024 Draft & Rookie Season
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In the 2024 NFL Draft, DeJean was selected 40th overall in the 2nd round by the Philadelphia Eagles.
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Quickly made his mark as a cornerback and return specialist — showcasing speed, instinct, and versatility.
Super Bowl LIX & Historic Pick-Six
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In his rookie season, DeJean helped his team reach the ultimate stage — the Super Bowl.
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On his 22nd birthday (Feb 9, 2025) — the same day — he made NFL history: intercepted a pass and returned it 38 yards for a touchdown (a “pick-six”).
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That touchdown was not only his first career interception and TD but also the first pick-six in an NFL Super Bowl by a player from his team.
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The moment elevated him overnight — from rookie to Super Bowl hero, with fans and analysts calling him among the most exciting young defensive talents in the league.
What Makes Cooper DeJean Stand Out?
Several traits and elements differentiate Cooper DeJean from many of his peers:
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Versatility: He’s not just a cornerback — he’s shown skills as a returner, safety/cash-hybrid, special teams — a rare multi-dimensional athlete.
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Small-town work ethic: Growing up in Odebolt and playing at a consolidated school, he had to work hard for recognition — that humility and drive stayed with him.
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Clutch performance: From high school championships to college bowl games to the Super Bowl — DeJean seems to rise when it matters most.
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Faith & values: The tattoo “God is greater than the highs and the lows” hints at a grounded mindset, helping him stay humble and focused despite rapid fame.
Tattoo, Nickname & Identity — What They Reveal
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Tattoo | Right bicep: lettering meaning “God is greater than the highs and the lows.” A testament to his faith and grounding values. |
| Nickname | No widely accepted or official nickname — but fans sometimes refer to him as a “small-town hero” or “farm-town underdog turned NFL star.” |
| Identity / Brand | A humble, hardworking athlete rooted in faith and values. Coming from a tiny town, his journey resonates with underdogs everywhere. |
GIFs & Visuals — Why They Matter
GIFs or highlight clips of Cooper DeJean — especially his Super Bowl interception return — play a key role in building his public profile. For fans, these short, shareable visuals encapsulate:
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His speed and athleticism (cornerback / returner)
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The emotional weight of his journey — from small town to NFL spotlight
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The dramatic highlight moment that turned him into a household name
In the age of social media, one viral GIF can amplify a player’s fame decades faster than traditional media ever could.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Where is Cooper DeJean from?
A: Although born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, he was raised in Odebolt, Iowa — a small farming town with around 920 residents.
Q: What is the meaning of his tattoo?
A: The tattoo on his right bicep reads (or represents) “God is greater than the highs and the lows,” reflecting his faith and life philosophy.
Q: Does he have a nickname?
A: Not an official nickname yet — but many fans and media refer to him informally as a “small-town hero” or “farm-town underdog.”
Q: What positions does he play?
A: Primarily cornerback in the NFL, but he has also played return specialist and versatile defensive roles (safety/cash) throughout college and early career.
Q: What are his major career achievements so far?
A: — Drafted 40th overall in 2024 by the Philadelphia Eagles Instrumental in his team’s Super Bowl LIX victory, returning an interception for a touchdown on his 22nd birthday — first pick-six in an NFL Super Bowl by an Eagles player. <br> — Known for versatility, athleticism, and a rapid rise from small town to NFL stardom.
Why Cooper DeJean’s Story Resonates — More Than Just Football
Cooper DeJean’s journey strikes a chord beyond the football field:
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It’s a classic underdog-to-champion tale — coming from a town of less than a thousand and making it to the pinnacle of professional football.
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For young athletes in small towns everywhere, he’s a beacon of hope: proving that if you work hard, stay humble, and stay grounded — big dreams aren’t just for big cities.
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His tattoo and faith show that success doesn’t have to change your values. In an age of fame and spotlight, that authenticity stands out.
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His story reminds us that character, grit, and community roots often matter as much as raw talent.
Conclusion
Cooper DeJean is more than just the newest star cornerback of the Philadelphia Eagles — he represents what hard work, humility, faith, and talent can achieve. From the dusty fields of Odebolt, Iowa, to catching his first career interception and returning it for a touchdown in the Super Bowl on his 22nd birthday — his story defies odds.
His tattoo speaks volumes about who he is off the field. He may not yet have a flashy nickname, but his deeds — on and off the gridiron — are building a legacy in real time. And as fans continue to share GIFs, highlights, and stories of his rise, DeJean’s influence only grows.
Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fan or someone inspired by underdog success stories, Cooper DeJean’s journey offers both excitement and substance.