The Philadelphia Eagles begin their quest for back-to-back championships on Thursday night at the Linc against their division rival, the Dallas Cowboys. Few games carry the same level of anticipation as an Eagles-Cowboys showdown, and the 2024 opener has no shortage of storylines. One of the most intriguing battles will be how Cowboys star receiver CeeDee Lamb performs against the Eagles’ star defensive back, Cooper DeJean.
Lamb has cemented himself as one of the premier wide receivers in the NFL. Over the last four seasons, Lamb has accumulated at least 1,100 yards per season, piled up 33 touchdowns (including 12 in 2023), and was selected to the Pro Bowl every year. He also does most of his damage while lined up in the slot, where he has seen over 60% of his snaps, per PFF.
Although Lamb’s production is elite, the Eagles showed last year that they have the defensive talent to contain him.
Eagles Will Once Again Rely on Cooper DeJean vs. the Cowboys
In Week 10 of the 2023 season, Lamb was surprisingly quiet, limited to just 21 yards on six catches. While matched directly against Cooper DeJean, Lamb managed only two receptions for a single yard. That type of performance is rare for a receiver of Lamb’s caliber and served as proof that DeJean is capable of competing with the best in the league.
Still, it’s worth noting that the Cowboys were without starting quarterback Dak Prescott in that contest, and his presence could drastically change how effective Lamb is this time around.
For Philadelphia, DeJean’s rise has been one of the defense’s most important storylines. Thriving in the nickel role last season—where he spent nearly 70% of his snaps—DeJean consistently disrupted passing lanes and proved reliable in coverage. According to PFF, he finished with an overall grade of 82.7, ranking him as the fourth-best cornerback in football. Beyond the numbers, DeJean’s awareness and physicality make him an ideal matchup against slot receivers who rely on timing and separation.
When these two players line up across from each other on Thursday night, it will be strength against strength: a Pro Bowl wideout at the height of his powers versus one of the league’s brightest young defensive backs. If DeJean can replicate last year’s dominance, the Eagles’ defense may once again control the narrative in this storied rivalry.