Cooper DeJean solidified his status as a Super Bowl hero on Sunday, delivering a game-changing moment that will be etched in NFL history. The rookie cornerback intercepted Patrick Mahomes and returned the pick for a touchdown, marking not only the first interception and touchdown of his professional career but also propelling the Eagles to a commanding 17-point lead. His pivotal play shifted the momentum entirely in Philadelphia’s favor, sealing their dominant victory over the Chiefs on football’s grandest stage.
Among the many voices celebrating DeJean’s electrifying pick-six and Super Bowl triumph was Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark. Both athletes recently concluded remarkable rookie seasons in their respective sports after making their mark with the Iowa Hawkeyes. Despite competing on different playing fields, their shared collegiate legacy continues to connect them, with Clark taking a moment to acknowledge DeJean’s championship moment.
Although Clark is a known Chiefs supporter, she still extended her congratulations to her fellow Iowa alum in a display of sportsmanship. DeJean revealed her kind gesture during an appearance on the Up & Adams Show, sharing that she sent him a heartfelt message following his Super Bowl win. “She sent me a nice message, congratulating me,” DeJean told host Kay Adams. “That was nice of her, being a Chiefs fan and all.”
The connection between DeJean and Clark extends beyond mutual admiration. The Eagles rookie has previously claimed that he could defeat Clark in a one-on-one basketball matchup, playfully adding to their friendly rivalry. However, ahead of the Super Bowl, DeJean made it clear that his respect for Clark’s impact on the sport is unwavering.
“I think she’s probably the most exciting player to watch right now, men’s or women’s basketball,” DeJean remarked last week. “Just the way she plays the game—she can score, she can pass, she can do it all. She’s taking women’s basketball to new heights.” His words underscore the immense influence Clark continues to have on the game, proving that her stardom transcends basketball and commands the attention of elite athletes across all sports.
