Cooper DeJean Talks High Expectations, 2023 Preseason Awards
This morning, Iowa defensive back Cooper DeJean was named to the Big Ten's preseason watchlist of ten players in the conference that are expected to be among the best in the country in 2023. The Odebolt, Iowa native is also seen as one of the top DBs in the country going into this season.
He's taking it all in stride.
"It's the preseason," he said on Tuesday at Big Ten Media Days. "Everybody is 0-0, so it doesn't mean a whole lot. I just want to go out and prove that I can do it during the season. So that's what I've been focused on. You can't worry too much about that right now. I just have to focus on what I can do in camp to help our team get better."
If he does consider the preseason accolades at all, they're simply used as motivation.
"I try to not pay too much attention to it," he said. "It's definitely motivating. It's cool to see. But, like I said, I'm focused on trying to help our team win in any way I can."
Ultimately, he was just happy to be a part of the Big Ten's big event on Tuesday.
"It's a great opportunity to be here and to be able to represent the University of Iowa -- a University that has given so much to me as a person and as a player," DeJean said. "It's cool to be here to represent them along with Jay (Higgins) and Luke (Lachey), along with Coach (Kirk) Ferentz. It's an honor."
DeJean also gives credit to his position coach and defensive coordinator, Phil Parker for what he's been able to do over the last two seasons.
"He helped a lot," DeJean said. "Obviously, I didn't know much about playing defensive back -- especially at this level -- when I came in. I played a little bit in high school, but really, I was just roaming the middle of the field. He has really helped out with all the details of playing defensive back, safety and corner. All those different positions. I can't thank him enough for how much he's helped me grow as a player and how much he'll continue to help."
DeJean hasn't forgotten about his smalltown upbringing, either. He gives credit to his parents -- Jason and Katie -- for the mindset he took with him to Iowa City.
"It all goes back to my parents," he said. "They always told me to stay humble and give props where props are due. Coach Ferentz stresses that, too. I give them all the credit."