Alex Durand and Tom Carles, whose affection for Philadelphia during the World Cup drew widespread online attention, met with Eagles defensive back Cooper DeJean during their visit. In a video shared on Instagram, the conversation opened with a question about the origin of DeJean's surname.
"Everybody says my last name is French, but is it French? I don't think I'm French though," DeJean said in the clip. When asked how he pronounces it, he replied, "Dejean." Durand and Carles corrected him: "For us it's DeJean."
According to Carles, the player was unaware of the name's roots. "He had no idea that he was French... his last name was French," he said. The pair went on to explain what they described as the name's connection to French royalty.
"It's French royalty. That's what Tom was explaining," Durand said. "When your last name starts with 'Du,' it's French royalty." They jokingly added that DeJean could be considered "Roi Cooper - or King Cooper."
Durand said the exchange generated millions of views online.
The pair's return to Philadelphia followed a summer visit for World Cup matches that left a lasting impression. They said they fell in love with the city and adopted the Eagles as their favorite NFL team. That connection led to an invitation from the team, which contacted them through direct message and invited them to attend a practice before the season opener.
"Football is much different than soccer. The atmosphere of the fans is insane," they said, describing the contrast between American football crowds and the soccer environments they know. "Here it's complete silence or insanity in the stadium. Which was crazy to live and experience."
Durand and Carles are also promoting a new book released this month, Pardon Our French: The Parisian Way to a Happier Life, which offers guidance on incorporating French habits into American routines, including slowing down and reducing stress.
For the two visitors, the latest trip blended football, Philadelphia and a viral lesson in French heritage - strengthening a connection that began during their first visit to the city.