Reports: Iowa CB Cooper DeJean sustains major leg injury

Field Level Media|published: Wed 15th November, 18:14 2023

Nov 4, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats wide receiver Cam Johnson (14) tries to catch a pass as Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Cooper DeJean (3) defends during the first half at Wrigley Field. credits: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Iowa star cornerback Cooper DeJean is likely done for the season after sustaining a serious leg injury during Wednesday's practice, according to multiple media reports.

The Athletic reported that DeJean has a broken fibula. The school hasn't announced specifics at this point.

DeJean also was named Wednesday as one of five finalists for the Nagurski Trophy, which goes to the nation's top defender. He also is a semifinalist for the Bednarik, Thorpe and Lott awards.

DeJean has 41 tackles and two interceptions this season. He also has returned a punt for a touchdown while averaging 11.5 yards per return.

Last season, DeJean intercepted five passes and returned three of them for touchdowns.

DeJean is forecasted to be a mid-first-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft if he enters his name.

Also named a Nagurski finalist were Illinois defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton, Georgia safety Malaki Starks, Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts and North Carolina State linebacker Payton Wilson.

Iowa and Illinois face each other Saturday at Iowa City, Iowa.

—Field Level Media