
Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin Boast Super Bowl LIX Connections
As the excitement builds for Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, fans from across the country eagerly await the clash of two powerhouse teams. But for those from the Midwest, the game holds even more significance as players with ties to Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin are making their mark on football’s biggest stage. These three states have long been known for producing top-tier talent, and this year’s Super Bowl is no exception. Here’s a look at the players from these states who will be suiting up for the Chiefs and Eagles in Super Bowl LIX (59)!
Iowa Connections
Cooper DeJean (Philadelphia Eagles) – CB from Odebolt, Iowa; played at the University of Iowa
Reed Blankenship #32 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after a fumble recovery as teammate Cooper DeJean #33 looks on as they play the Washington Commanders during the first quarter in the NFC Championship Game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 26, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
One of the standout stars from Iowa, Cooper DeJean has quickly become a household name in the NFL. Born in Odebolt, Iowa, DeJean honed his skills at the University of Iowa, where he earned All-American honors. Known for his versatility, DeJean’s presence on the Eagles’ defense and as a punt returner has been impactful all season. Heading into the Super Bowl, he’s a key player who could make a big difference in Philadelphia’s quest for a championship.

Illinois Connections
Sydney Brown (Philadelphia Eagles) – S from London, Ontario (but played college football at the University of Illinois)
Sydney Brown #21 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after getting ejected during the fourth quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on December 29, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
While Sydney Brown was born in London, Ontario, his football roots run deep in Illinois. Brown played college football at the University of Illinois, where he became a standout safety before making his way to the NFL. Now a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, Brown’s defensive prowess has been a vital asset to the team. His journey from Illinois to the Super Bowl is an inspiring one, and fans from the state are proud to cheer him on as he takes the field.
Other players include Jake Elliott a 30-year-old kicker for the Eagles and native of Western Springs who played at LaGrange Lyons. Trevor Keegan is a 6-foot-5, 306-pound Eagles rookie and reserve offensive lineman. He played high school football at Crystal Lake South in suburban Chicago.
Wisconsin Connections
Leo Chenal (Kansas City Chiefs) – LB from Grantsburg, Wisconsin; played at the University of Wisconsin
Leo Chenal #54 of the Kansas City Chiefs celebrates after a sack during the first quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium on October 08, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
For Wisconsin fans, Leo Chenal has been a name to watch. The Grantsburg, Wisconsin native played his college football at the University of Wisconsin, where he established himself as a dominant linebacker. Now with the Kansas City Chiefs, Chenal is part of a championship-contending team, and his physical style of play is a major reason why the Chiefs' defense has been so formidable. As the Super Bowl approaches, Chenal will be ready to leave his mark on the game and help the Chiefs in their pursuit of another Super Bowl victory.
Other players include Eagles linebacker Zach Baun, a Brown Deer High School alumnus. Chiefs guard Mike Caliendo, a Brookfield East alumnus.
The Midwestern Impact on Super Bowl LIX
As we approach Super Bowl LIX, it’s clear that the Midwest has played a significant role in shaping the talent of this year’s championship teams. With players like Cooper DeJean, Sydney Brown, and Leo Chenal representing Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, fans from these states have someone to cheer on for each side.
Left to right: Sydney Brown, Leo Chanel, Cooper DeJean.
These players' journeys from college football to the NFL highlight our strong football traditions in the Midwest. Whether it’s DeJean’s shutdown coverage and special teams work for the Eagles, Brown’s impact as an Eagle's DB, or Chenal’s hard-hitting presence for the Chiefs, these athletes bring pride to their home and collegiate states. As Super Bowl LIX kicks off, fans from the Midwest will be cheering loudly for their homegrown heroes, hoping to see them add a Super Bowl championship to their impressive resumes. It’s clear that Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin aren’t just producing great players—they’re producing true champions.
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Gallery Credit: Katrina Sirotta