Eagles rookie DB isn't as ready as he needs to be heading into Brazil matchup

Philadelphia Eagles' 2024 first round pick Quinyon Mitchell is ready to make his regular season NFL debut on Friday against the Green Bay Packers.

However, the same can't be said for Eagles' second round pick Cooper DeJean.

DeJean missed a good chunk of the preseason due to hamstring injury that he suffered right before the start of NFL training camp.

He was able to see some action in the Eagles' preseason finale against the Minnesota Vikings, but he's still playing catch-up.

“I think he's as prepared as he can be, but having said that, not where he needs to be," Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said this week.

Prior to dealing with a hamstring injury, DeJean had been adjusting well to the NFL and shining at spring practices. And while it had been frustrating for DeJean to watch most of the training camp from the sideline, he still learned a lot and took down mental notes.

"I think everybody, anybody's frustrated when they're out hurt, they're not able to play, you know, so it's a little frustrating,” DeJean said. “But I find different ways to learn and still keep progressing."

In the Eagles' preseason finale, DeJean played 47 snaps on defense and another eight on special teams. That game marked his first one back since November of 2023.

That's because he missed the end of his final college football season due to a fractured fibula, so it was good to be back.

"I think just by getting back out there and getting those reps I felt more and more confident as I've progressed since the injury, it's been good to get out there and get the reps and kind of see the receivers moving in front of me," DeJean said.

For now, DeJean is expected to back up Mitchel in the slot, though he’s also learned to play safety and outside corner this summer.

Once DeJean is back to full health and has the playbook down, then the sky is going to be the limit for the 21-year-old defensive back.

Related: Eagles explain plan for rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell ahead of Week 1 vs. Packers