(Iowa City, IA) – Cooper DeJean has been named to the 2023 Paul Hornung Award Watch List. The Odebolt, Iowa native was voted in last year’s Music City Bowl as the Most Valuable Player as he had seven tackles and had a 14-yard pick-six against the Kentucky Wildcats. DeJean finished last season with 75 tackles, five interceptions, and eight pass breakups. He also earned 16.5 yards on 10 punt returns to add to his season accolades.
Not only has he been nominated to this watch list, he was also named to the 2023 Bronko Nagurski Trophy Watch List, one award that is given to the best defensemen in college football. He was also named to the Big Ten Conference Preseason Honors List and was First-Team All-Big Ten by Phil Steele.
This award is given to the most versatile player in College Football. It is named for the legendary Green Bay Packers Hall of Famer Paul Hornung. He was known for being one of the more versatile players in football history, as he was the primary halfback for the Packers. While playing the halfback position, he also played as a kicker and at times, a receiver for the Lombardi squad. This award indicated the versatility of an athlete based on Hornung’s accomplishments.
Iowa will open up its season against Utah State on September 2nd at 11 am in front of a sold-out crowd.
