Vic Fangio offered a possible explanation for Cooper DeJean’s tackling struggles while making clear that he remains pleased with the Eagles defensive back’s overall performance. According to Jeff McLane, Philadelphia’s defensive coordinator said Wednesday that a stinger DeJean suffered earlier in the season could explain why he hasn't tackled as well this year.
Fangio’s assessment adds context without establishing that the injury explains every missed opportunity. His comments also did not announce a change in DeJean’s availability.
The distinction matters as Philadelphia prepares to host Dallas on Monday night. The Eagles need dependable tackling against a receiving group featuring CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, both of whom can turn completions
into larger gains.
#Eagles DT Vic Fangio mentioned that the stinger Cooper DeJean suffered earlier in the season could be why he hasn’t tackled as well this season. But he said he’s pleased with how DeJean has played this season. pic.twitter.com/b0a9VcLJ1t
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) October 21, 2026
DeJean’s slot work puts him in situations where finishing a tackle can turn a short reception into a manageable gain or an extended possession. For Fangio, the objective is preserving effective coverage while improving how the defense finishes plays. A defender can perform his coverage assignment well and still leave room for improvement at the point of contact.
The coordinator’s broader endorsement suggests he views DeJean’s season through that complete lens.
Philadelphia enters the matchup trying to end a four-game losing streak. Better tackling would ease the burden on an offense still searching for consistency, and DeJean will be a key part of that effort.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Vic Fangio says stinger could explain Cooper DeJean’s tackling issues
