Iowa junior corner Cooper DeJean says he is focused on the upcoming season and not on preseason awarrds. DeJean was named the Big Ten preseason defensive player of the year after a sophomore season in which he set a single season record by returning three interceptions for touchdowns. He also averaged more than 16 yards per punt return.

A year ago, linebacker Jack Campbell was the preseason defensive player of the year and also won the post season honor as well.

DeJean is the latest in a long line of outstanding defensive backs at Iowa.

DeJean says he worked on improving all aspects of his game this summer.

Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz was impressed DeJean remembered Bob Sanders.

Ferentz says DeJean’s strength is his versatility.

The Hawkeyes open at home on September second against Utah State.