Nakobe Dean: Rising Through Adversity to Shine for the Philadelphia Eagles
Sunday marked a turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, who delivered an impressive performance following a challenging summer marred by a foot injury. Dean's standout display this past weekend has solidified his role as a formidable force in the Eagles’ defense.
Last season, Dean was handed a starting linebacker position, but this year, he’s earning his role the hard way. After gradually working his way into first-team reps, his effort and determination are finally paying off. Dean's collaboration with fellow linebacker Devin White and the support of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio have been pivotal in his progress.
On the first play of 11-on-11 drills during Saturday's practice, Dean's impact was palpable as he laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith, demonstrating the aggressive and physical style of play the Eagles have been yearning for from their defense.
Fangio's defensive philosophy has significantly benefited Dean, who seems closer than ever to securing a starting linebacker position for Week 1. The influence of new linebackers coach Bobby King has also been instrumental. Dean credits King with enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style, reflecting a newfound aggressiveness that has galvanized the team.
Dean's offseason regimen was grueling, consisting of five days a week of intensive training until training camp started. "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 remarked, underlining his commitment and resilience.
Despite the reduced tackling in camp, Dean aims to add a physical edge to every play. "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 was two-handed touch always. I want to thud," Dean said. His physical approach has been well-received by his offensive counterparts, who appreciate the toughness and the real-game feel it brings. "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.
This season marks Dean's third year in the NFL, and his camp performance has aligned with his own high expectations. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," Dean stated confidently. His versatility as a linebacker – covering, filling the A-gap, and blitzing the quarterback – has been emphasized in training camp, and Dean feels prepared to excel in all aspects. "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 elaborated.
Drawing from his experiences and the guidance of his coaches, Dean aims to contribute significantly to the Eagles’ defense. "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 emphasized.
As the regular season approaches, the Eagles look forward to leveraging Dean's physicality and versatility. Transforming his challenges into triumphs, Nakobe Dean is poised to make an indelible impact on the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive lineup, embodying the aggressive, hard-hitting style they have long sought.