Rookies aren’t supposed to make plays like that in the Super Bowl unless they’re Cooper DeJean. The Iowa product had the audacity to pull off a clutch moment against Patrick Mahomes’ Kansas City Chiefs, and even the vets took notice.
Philadelphia Eagles LB Zack Baun couldn’t help but give props, calling it the kind of move you’d expect from a seasoned pro.
Zack Baun Praises Cooper DeJean’s Pick-Six on Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl Win
“That’s some veteran a** s**t!” – That’s how LB Zack Baun described DeJean’s massive pick-six in Super Bowl 59, and he was bang-on. The rookie defensive back changed the game, capping off a defensive masterclass.
The Eagles’ defense set the tone early, rattling Mahomes with quite the pressure. By halftime, they were up 34-0, and Mahomes had already been picked off twice.
The defining moment came in the third quarter when Mahomes, as he’s done countless times before, rolled out and attempted one of his signature across-the-body throws. Only this time, DeJean was waiting for it. Reading Mahomes’ eyes, he jumped the route, snagged the ball, and took it to the house for six.
A defense synced up in every way.
Mid-play communication gave Cooper DeJean the perfect opportunity to jump a route and break the game open 💪#NFLTurningPoint on ESPN+ | @LRiddickESPN pic.twitter.com/Fggat0tCmn
— NFL Films (@NFLFilms) February 12, 2025
The rookie made it look effortless — a play so sharp even the veterans had to respect it.
Post-game, DeJean broke down the play with Kay Adams, explaining that film study had prepared him for this exact moment.
The Eagles’ defense knew Mahomes loved finding crossing routes when scrambling. “Yeah, I mean, anytime he gets out of the pocket you never know what’s gonna happen,” DeJean said.
“I’ve seen him throw it across his body, I don’t know how many times watching film. It’s just the crazy plays that he’s made, I’ve seen him complete those passes. It’s really just trying to track his eyes, where he was looking, and following him back inside and making that play.”
A rookie reading one of the greatest QBs like a book? Yeah, that’s indeed some veteran-level stuff. And it just won Philly a Super Bowl.
Zack Baun Honors Bill Bergey
Baun wore Bill Bergey’s medallion during the Eagles’ Super Bowl run, and played like a legend in the making. The All-Pro LB, who went from free agent to one of Philly’s best, carried a piece of franchise history with him throughout the postseason.
Baun revealed Thursday that he wore a medallion belonging to former Eagles linebacker Bill Bergey, who passed away on Christmas Day at 79. G.M. Howie Roseman made it happen, reaching out to Bergey’s family for something symbolic. He then presented it to Baun in a linebackers meeting, ensuring Bergey’s legacy remained part of the team’s journey.
“Absolutely honored,” Baun said. “To be representing his family, his legacy that way. It’s really cool.”
Baun didn’t just wear the medallion — he delivered. He capped off the season with an interception in Super Bowl LIX, helping the Eagles dominate the Chiefs.
Now, the big question: Will Baun stay in Philly? His one-year, $3.5 million deal is up, and his market value is soaring. If the Eagles want to keep their defensive ace, they’ll have to pay up.