Cooper DeJean and Eagles paid tribute to John Cena after recent retirement during win over Commanders

John Cena is already getting celebrated in the NFL.

Adam Holt — NFL News Writer
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May 28, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean speaks with the media during OTAs at NovaCare Complex. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Amid a game with tons of physicality and drama, part of the Philadelphia Eagles defense was able to find some comedic relief during the team’s win over the Washington Commanders in Week 16. Along with winning an NFC East title, they also sent some love to one of the most well-known athletes who recently called it a career.

Cooper DeJean confirms John Cena tribute with celebration during win

DeJean got an interception versus the Commanders and took full advantage of the turnover with a celebration that honors a wrestling legend in John Cena.

“The celebration, just a tribute to John Cena, a guy I watched growing up. Big WWE guy when I was a kid. We had that planned for awhile, but I didn’t get a pick.” — DeJean on the Cena tribute celebration

Cena officially retired from competiting in WWE earlier this month, which signaled the end of a storied career. In his final match, the long-time fan favorite tapped out to Gunther at “Saturday Night’s Main Event”. Cena still plans to play a role in growing the sport but also wants to focus on his family and acting career away from the ring.

“He committed and dedicated so much of his human existence to the WWE, and it’s so inspiring. And to see just… I’ll never forget that view of the sleeper hold and the kind of smirk and then the tap and I’m like, ‘oh, my gosh! This is amazing,’” — Jeff Hardy via interview with MuscleManMalcolm

While DeJean hasn’t necessarily forced a ton of turnovers so far in his young career, he has been incredibly impressive. Alongside Quinyon Mitchell, those two create one of the most dynamic defensive back combos in all of football. They should have a massive impact in Philly for years to come.

For DeJean, he grew up watching Cena and appreciates everything he’s done for WWE and the entertainment aspect of the industry. Giving shoutouts to different non-football pop culture has become more common in recent seasons around the NFL.

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