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A.J. Brown Takes on Leadership Role, Mentors Philly’s Next Big Defensive Star

Cooper DeJean may have captured national attention with a viral tackle on Derrick Henry and a pick-six in the Super Bowl, but according to A.J. Brown, the real test begins now.

The Eagles’ star wide receiver isn’t just pushing himself in training camp—he’s made it his personal mission to elevate DeJean to greatness.

“I call him All-Pro Coop… APC,” Brown said with a grin. “It’s going to be a year for him. I’m not trying to put pressure on him, but I tell him all the time: I’m going to make you All-Pro. That starts in camp, each and every day.”

A.J. Brown gives Philadelphia Eagles' Cooper DeJean the ultimate new  nickname with high expectations | Yardbarker

DeJean, a 2024 second-round pick, is coming off a promising rookie season. He appeared in all 16 games, starting nine, recording 51 tackles, 6 pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a crucial pick-six off Patrick Mahomes in the biggest game of his life.

And now, he’s being battle-tested daily against one of the most dominant WRs in the NFL.

Brown, who has topped 1,000 receiving yards in three straight seasons since joining the Eagles in 2022, knows what it takes to be elite. And with DeJean practicing against Philly’s stacked WR corps, including Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Parris Campbell, the young DB is sharpening fast.

“Honestly, it’s part of my responsibility—our responsibility as wide receivers—to get those guys ready,” Brown added. “And vice versa.”

With the CB2 spot still open and expectations rising, DeJean finds himself right in the middle of the spotlight. But he’s not alone. With a mentor like A.J. Brown in his ear—and across from him in drills—his second-year leap might just live up to the hype.

Brown believes it. So do the fans. And that belief is becoming contagious at camp.

Legendary Drew Brees Praises the Performance of the Saints' Rookie RB, the Perfect Replacement for Alvin Kamara
Can you believe it? The 2025 season is turning into a nightmare for the New Orleans Saints' running back corps, with superstar Alvin Kamara suffering a severe injury to his knee and ankle right in Week 12! Kendre Miller is also out for similar reasons, leaving Saints fans in a panic: Who will save the offense? But don't worry, a "hidden gem" rookie from the 6th round of the draft has stepped into the spotlight, turning Kamara's absence into a golden opportunity to shine brilliantly – and he's even received "high-flying" praise from legendary Drew Brees! Things didn't go as planned: Kamara was expected to "revive" under head coach Kellen Moore, while Miller awaited an explosive season. But injuries struck, opening the door for this young guy – a former college star with all-time records in rushing yards and touchdowns at Kansas. Initially, he was predicted to just sit on the bench, even being a "healthy scratch" in the first few weeks of the season. But when Kamara went down, he was thrust into the lead role, and oh boy, his performance is making the entire NFL take notice! It took a few weeks to "warm up," but this rookie has improved day by day, earning trust from Moore. His career-best game? A sweet 84 scrimmage yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers! His touches skyrocketed: 12 times against the Falcons (7 rushes, 5 receptions), 17 times against the Dolphins (14 rushes, 3 receptions), then exploding with 20 opportunities in the upset win over the Buccaneers (19 rushes, 1 reception). Not only an efficient rusher, he's also a "golden shield" in the passing game – catching 16/18 targets for 100 yards this season, and spectacular blocks that save quarterback Tyler Shough from pressure! And now, the "blockbuster" reveal: That's Devin Neal, the rookie RB who's turning the Saints into a "youth whirlwind"! The Saints' 2025 draft class is truly a "gold mine," with Neal emphasizing that through his impressive performance. With no timeline for Kamara's return, Neal will continue to be used more – which isn't a bad thing at all, as he's making the most of the opportunity that Miller never got! But the peak? Legendary Drew Brees, the icon of the Saints, has lavished praise on Neal during a Netflix broadcast! Brees emotionally shared: "Devin Neal has shown incredible consistency in his rookie season, and he's proving himself to be an important part of the Saints' future – a true talent that reminds me of the golden days!" Praise from "King" Brees not only elevates Neal but also ignites hope for Saints fans: Could this guy be the "perfect replacement" for Kamara? With his role growing larger, Neal is the shining bright spot, turning opposing defenses into a "joke" and pushing the Saints closer to the playoffs! Don't miss out – the Saints are "transforming" thanks to the new generation, and Neal is the "explosive trigger"! Follow now for the next drama in the 2025 NFL!