Eagles CB Cooper DeJean delivers tackle of the year on Derrick Henry

Philadelphia Eagles rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean delivered a highlight-reel hit that has the NFL buzzing. Drafted in the second round, DeJean has wasted no time establishing himself as a force on the field. Through 11 games, he's already tallied 30 tackles, five breakups, and a fumble recovery. But on a frigid December Sunday against the Baltimore Ravens, he might've added the defining moment of his young career.

In a game where the Eagles emerged victorious, 24-19, thanks to a strong performance from Saquon Barkley, it was DeJean's defensive play in the fourth quarter that had the Philadelphia sideline-and fans-erupting.

Late in the game, the Ravens were trailing 21-12 but looking to mount a comeback. With Lamar Jackson under center, Baltimore's offense was driving when a swing found Derrick Henry in open space. Standing in Henry's way? A 198-pound DeJean, ready to prove that size doesn't always matter.

What happened next left everyone stunned. DeJean met the 247-pound Henry at the line of scrimmage, stopped him cold, and then executed a textbook tackle that lifted Henry off the ground and drove him into the turf. The Eagles' bench exploded in celebration, with players yelling and throwing their hands in the air.

Cooper DeJean's growing impact

The play immediately went viral. Slow-motion replays showed just how clean and powerful the hit was, earning DeJean praise across social media and from his teammates. "Derrick Henry pile-driven into the ground by the rookie Cooper DeJean! The Eagles bench is going ballistic!" one commentator exclaimed during the broadcast.

Not many defenders can claim to have gotten the better of Henry, one of the league's most punishing runners. For a rookie cornerback to do it, the moment was all the more impressive.

DeJean's hit is the latest chapter in an already promising rookie season. Known for his physicality and instincts during his college career, he's quickly becoming a fan favorite in Philadelphia. Eagles defensive coordinator Sean Desai praised the rookie postgame, saying, "Cooper's fearless. That's what we saw when we drafted him. Plays like that are why he's earned his spot on this defense."

DeJean's hit electrifies Eagles, showcases team's grit and determination

The Eagles sideline wasn't the only one buzzing. Players were seen imitating the hit during warm-downs, and several took to social media afterward to praise their teammate. Linebacker Haason Reddick tweeted, "Coop built different. Love to see that energy!"

With the win, the Eagles improved to 10-2, solidifying their status as NFC contenders. DeJean's standout play represents the energy and grit that have defined their defense all season. While Saquon Barkley's performance carried the offense, moments like DeJean's tackle remind everyone why the Eagles are a complete team.

For fans, the hit encapsulates what they love about football: raw physicality, grit, and the underdog mentality. For DeJean, it's a moment that cements his place in the league. And for Derrick Henry? A reminder that even the biggest stars can get humbled by a determined rookie.