NFL News: Jalen Hurts’ Eagles teammate shares bold take about his childhood

The NFL world is gearing up for the 2025 NFL Draft in April, as teams look to secure the top prospects for the upcoming season. With only five months until the start of the regular season, the Philadelphia Eagles are determined to defend their NFC Championship and pursue another Super Bowl title. Jalen Hurts remains the cornerstone of their offense, and the rest of the roster is set to return next season.

After their Super Bowl loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Eagles are eagerly anticipating the next season’s start, with the NFL Draft being the first major event on the calendar. Following the draft, franchises will assess their rosters and begin finalizing their strategies for the upcoming campaign.

In the meantime, Eagles players are taking some time to rest, while also engaging in interviews and discussions about their Super Bowl journey, the path to the title, and other personal stories. One such player, Cooper DeJean, who played a pivotal role in the Super Bowl with a crucial touchdown, shared insights into his background and what it took to become a key contributor in his first season with the Eagles.

“I had to work hard growing up to overcome stereotypes and prove that I could achieve my dreams. I knew that success wouldn’t come easy, and there were many sacrifices along the way,“ DeJean said in an interview on The Pivot podcast.

Cooper DeJean #33 of the Philadelphia Eagles jogs across the field before Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs at Caesars Superdome on February 09, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

DeJean’s thoughts on teammate Saquon Barkley

One of the youngest players on the Eagles, DeJean made an immediate impact in his rookie season, securing a Super Bowl title. As a member of the defensive line, his success was unexpected by many, and he faced stereotypes and challenges throughout his early career.

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Now a Super Bowl champion, DeJean is poised for continued success. He credits inspirations like Saquon Barkley for fueling his drive. “He’s one of the best leaders I’ve ever met,” DeJean said. “Everyone knows how incredible he is on the field, but off the field, he’s a down-to-earth guy.”

DeJean added, “He’s the type of person who checks in on you every day. He always made sure I was doing okay, just a normal guy asking how I’m doing. It was pretty cool to see.”

Barkley’s reunion with former Giants teammate

After the Giants failed to offer Saquon Barkley a lucrative contract extension, he left in free agency. The Eagles quickly stepped in with an offer, and Barkley didn’t hesitate to join, eventually playing a key role in helping Philadelphia win the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

In related news, according to Jordan Schultz, the Eagles have also agreed to terms with veteran cornerback Adoree’ Jackson. Jackson, who spent the past four seasons with the Giants, saw his playing time diminish in the 2024 NFL season.