The football gods couldn’t have scripted a better story for Eagles rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean. In his first NFL season, on the biggest stage, and on his birthday, the Iowa alum has delivered a standout performance.
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Philly’s secondary kept Mahomes in check all night, but it was DeJean who stole the spotlight—intercepting the two-time MVP for his first interception of the season and taking it to the house for a pick-six. A moment he’ll never forget, and one that has ensured everyone remembers his name.
DeJean made history as the first player to score a Super Bowl touchdown on his birthday, and Eagles fans wasted no time taking shots at LeBron James. Many believe King James’ snub motivated Cooper to shine on the biggest stage—ensuring LeBron will remember his name for a long time.
Fans celebrated the moment, showering DeJean with congratulations for the pick-six and birthday wishes. They especially loved that he didn’t just settle for an interception—he took it all the way to the house.
However, Cooper’s pick didn’t surprise Iowa fans; they’ve seen him do this countless times before. Others joined in with memes, hailing DeJean as a rare sight in the modern NFL—a white cornerback making plays at the highest level.
LEBRON YOU BETTER REMEMBER THE NAME
— IcyVert (@IcyVert) February 10, 2025
Another chimed in and added,
Cooper DeJean after LeBron didn’t shake his hand pic.twitter.com/uFqcaDtmO7
— Josiah Johnson (@KingJosiah54) February 10, 2025
A fan commented,
He wasn’t settling for an interception. He wanted the TD. LOVE it.
— Michelle Peterson (@michellepeternp) February 10, 2025
Someone pointed out,
Pretty normal to see Coop scoring if you’re an Iowa fan.
— Marshall (@Piker73) February 10, 2025
A fan joked,
Cooper DeJean after getting a pick 6 on Patrick Mahomes:#SuperBowl pic.twitter.com/qBczdT69Ou
— Public Enemies Podcast (@TheEnemiesPE3) February 10, 2025
Even Skip Bayless took to social media after that pick, calling out LeBron and urging him to remember DeJean’s name as the guy who intercepted Mahomes. Skip believes Cooper is destined for bigger things as a white CB.
HEY, LEBRON, THAT GUY WHO JUST PICK SIXED MAHOMES … HIS NAME IS COOPER DEJEAN. MAYBE HE DOESN’T LOOK LIKE HE CAN PLAY CORNERBACK IN THE NFL, BUT HE’S ON HIS WAY TO BEING A STAR OF A STUD! 17-0 FLY, EAGLES, FLY.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) February 10, 2025
So why did LeBron catch strays from fans? It likely stems from a moment when he met with several Eagles players while they were courtside at a Lakers game. As Cooper waited his turn to meet King James—hand already extended for a handshake—LeBron walked away without noticing him, leaving DeJean seemingly snubbed.
Now, not only LeBron but everyone will remember especially if wins the Super Bowl in his rookie year which looks like happening. The Eagles lead the Chiefs 34-6 up until the end of 3rd quarter.
