Philadelphia Eagles rookie defensive back Cooper DeJean didn’t hesitate when asked by Eagles Analyst Anthony DiBona about his “welcome to the NFL” moment.
It wasn’t Ja’Marr Chase, Drake London, or even CeeDee Lamb that stood out. Surprisingly, DeJean pointed to Carolina Panthers veteran wide receiver Adam Thielen, saying, “He gave me some good work.”
This response caught many NFL fans off guard. After all, DeJean has already squared off against some of the league’s younger, flashier receivers.
Chase is a two-time Pro Bowler and Triple Crown winner with explosive speed, Cooper Kupp is a former Super Bowl MVP, and 2023 Rookie of the Year recipient Puka Nacua is lighting up record books.
Yet, DeJean chose the 34-year-old Thielen — a seasoned veteran now in his 11th NFL season — as the toughest challenge he’s faced.
Adam Thielen’s Wisdom of Experience
Thielen’s game is built on more than raw athleticism. Though he may not have the blazing speed of his younger counterparts, Thielen’s skill set has only refined with age.
His precise route running, football IQ, and ability to create separation make him a nightmare matchup for defensive backs of any age (rookies especially).
I asked Eagles rookie CB Cooper DeJean about his “Welcome to the NFL” moment.
DeJean’s answer might surprise you. 👀 pic.twitter.com/QjDaBYA5lM
— Anthony DiBona (@DiBonaNFL) January 6, 2025
DeJean, fresh out of college, likely learned this firsthand. In the NFL, it’s not just about physicality. Players like Thielen know how to exploit the smallest mistakes.
For a rookie like DeJean, who’s adjusting to the faster pace and increased complexity of professional football, facing an 11-year veteran is a crash course in what it means to play at the highest level.
Why Cooper DeJean’s Answer Surprised Fans
The NFL is full of highlight-reel players who grab attention with flashy plays and jaw-dropping athleticism. Chase, London, and Lamb fit this mold. It’s no wonder fans expected DeJean to name one of them.
“So not CeeDee Lamb???” one fan posted on X.
Thielen, however, flies under the radar despite his consistent production. His career includes two Pro Bowl appearances and multiple 1,000-yard seasons. Now, with the Panthers, he’s proving that age is just a number.
DeJean’s choice highlights something often overlooked in the NFL: The value of experience. Young stars may dazzle with speed and agility, but veterans like Thielen bring nuance and savvy that can’t be taught in a classroom or simulated in practice.
A Learning Moment for DeJean…and Fans
DeJean’s candid response offers a glimpse into the challenges of transitioning from college football to the NFL. It reminds us that the league’s toughest matchups aren’t always the flashiest. Sometimes, the understated mastery of a player like Thielen leaves the biggest impression.
For fans, DeJean’s answer underscores the depth of talent in the NFL. While we’re quick to celebrate the league’s rising stars, veterans like Thielen quietly shape the next generation of players—one rookie at a time.