Nakobe Dean's Promising Turnaround
Sunday marked a significant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, who delivered an impressive performance after grappling with a troubling foot injury over the summer. After securing a starting linebacker role last year, Dean is now earning his position the hard way, gradually melding into first-team reps and adapting to heightened physical expectations from the defense.
The 23-year-old's journey to this point hasn't been easy, marked by a grueling offseason regimen that saw him training five days a week up until training camp. "I didn't have a day off, I didn't have an offseason. It was five days a week until training camp started as far as getting that foot right, getting better. It's like I'm not back, I'm better," Dean emphasized. This relentless determination has resonated with his teammates and coaches, setting the stage for his standout moments from the past weekend.
Displaying a physical edge that the Eagles have been longing for, Dean's performance in Saturday's practice sessions was a highlight. On the very first play of 11-on-11s, he made his presence felt by taking down running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he successfully broke up a pass intended for star receiver DeVonta Smith, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess.
Dean's resurgence has not gone unnoticed. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has expressed encouragement in Dean’s progress, while new linebackers coach Bobby King has fostered an environment that allows Dean to embrace his physical playing style fully. "He made it a main emphasis of block destruction, of blitzing because Vic's been calling our number, and tackling is a universal thing. We don't want no missed tackles, definitely not at the linebacker position, so it's been kind of universal topic we've been on in camp," Dean noted.
Training Camp Milestones
As Dean aims to lock down the starting linebacker position for Week 1, he remains acutely aware of focusing on what he can control. "I want to play. And I want to be the first one that plays. But I can't control that. The only thing I can control is what I come out here and do every day, work hard and continue to get better," he stated. His confidence in his training camp performance is palpably evident. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he affirmed.
With an emphasis on tackling and physical plays—despite reduced tackling during the camp—Dean has managed to inject a visible toughness into his gameplay. "We don't tackle as much in camp, so you try to thud as much as you can. In past years, I feel like I two-handed touch always. I want to thud," Dean remarked, underscoring his proactive approach to maintaining intensity.
Endorsement from Offense
Interestingly, Dean’s assertive style has been well received by his offensive counterparts too. "Offensive guys have embraced it. They embraced the toughness. They want a feel. The offensive starters, they haven't played in the preseason (games). So the first time they get hit, they don't want it to be Week 1," Dean explained, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between both sides of the ball during training sessions.
Three years into his NFL career, Dean's versatility as a linebacker proves to be a valuable asset for the Eagles. Comfortable in diverse roles ranging from coverage to blitzing the quarterback, his adaptability is a cornerstone of his game. "The type of linebacker I am, I feel like you need to be able to do everything. You need to be able to cover, you need to be able to fill that A-gap, you need to be able to blitz the quarterback. And I feel like those are things I do good," he shared.
A Future Star in the Making
As the regular season looms, Nakobe Dean’s promising development and tenacity suggest he is on the cusp of fully realizing his potential. Encouraged by his coaches, backed by his teammates, and driven by rigorous self-discipline, Dean epitomizes the passionate pursuit of excellence. His fervent desire to "thud" rather than merely touch is not just a testament to his physical capability but a metaphor for his approach to the game—a relentless drive to make every play count.