Why Iowa CB Cooper DeJean could be even more valuable as a Day 2 pick

Following a first-round rush on offensive players, there are plenty of standout defensive options left on the board for Day 2, including cornerback Cooper DeJean. 

Already considered one of the top defensive backs in the draft pool, the former Iowa product will be a steal for whichever team lands him. However, retired Pro Bowler and current NFL Network analyst Michael Robinson explained why DeJean's value might be even higher.

"What I really love about Cooper DeJean, he's a punt returner. We have new kickoff return rules—now, the kick returner will be more like a punt returner," Robinson said. "So, I think this kid's value goes way up because of his ability to return kicks."

After years of tinkering by the NFL, kickoffs became virtually irrelevant. Ultimately, the league approved significant changes in March, hoping to breathe new life into a play that had long become a weekly touchback-fest throughout the league. 

While aiming to increase the excitement of kickoffs, the revised rules also renew the importance of having speedy, athletic return men, as Robinson alluded to. Many teams around the league have already changed their approach in response. The Pittsburgh Steelers have added a proven veteran to fill the role while the Kansas City Chiefs brought on a former rugby star to potentially make an impact.  

DeJean certainly fits the mold of what the NFL's new return specialist might look like. In 2023, he averaged 11.48 yards per punt return (8th in FBS) and was only one of five players to record both punt and kickoff return touchdowns, with the remaining four all playing either wideout or running back. 

Per Pro Football Focus, quarterbacks recorded only a 37.8 passer rating, throwing DeJean's way. Meanwhile, the ex-Hawkeye didn't allow a touchdown in 388 coverage snaps. So, whoever selects him won't be doing it because of his ability to impact special teams, though it's a noteworthy bonus.