Could Baltimore Ravens Draft Iowa DB Cooper DeJean & Move Him to Safety?

The Baltimore Ravens could go in many different directions with their first-round pick, and Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean could be one of their options.

Iowa defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) pulls in an interception for a touchdown. / George Walker IV/USA TODAY NETWORK / USA

After losing former safety and Iowa alumnus Geno Stone in free agency to the Cincinnati Bengals, could the Baltimore Ravens replace him with a player from his alma mater?

Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean is getting buzz as a potential first-round pick after a stellar collegiate career that saw him become a consensus All-American and he was a finalist for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and Jim Thorpe Award. Given his collegiate success and Stone's success, including a seven-interception season in 2023, the Ravens' site listed him as an option with their first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and noted he could eventually change positions from cornerback to safety.

Iowa defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) pulls in an interception for a touchdown. / George Walker IV/USA TODAY NETWORK / USA

"DeJean might transition to safety in the NFL, which is not a major need for Baltimore, where Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams are starters," the Ravens' team site writes. "However, DeJean is an effective blitzer and versatile in coverage, and Baltimore has an affinity for Iowa players. I wouldn't rule him out."

DeJean had two interceptions and five passes defended in 2023. He had an even better season in 2022, as he had five interceptions, including setting an Iowa record with three ran back for a touchdown.

DeJean has also proven to be a weapon on special teams, as he made the first-team All-Big Ten as a punt returner and defensive back. He had 21 returns for 241 yards and a touchdown last season.

How DeJean's medicals check out will also play a role in where DeJean is drafted. His season ended in November due to a broken fibula, and ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported he's made a full recovery and will have an individual workout for NFL teams on Monday.

If the Ravens like what they see from DeJean and think he can be a fit, then drafting him in the first round wouldn't be a surprise. Ultimately, Baltimore will have to weigh the impact he can make along with who else is available when it picks on April 25.