A Turning Point for Nakobe Dean: Philadelphia Eagles Linebacker Shines
Sunday marked a major turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, who put on an impressive display following a summer hampered by a foot injury. Dean's performance was nothing short of remarkable, setting the stage for what promises to be a standout season.
Rising Above Adversity
Last year, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role, but this season has presented a different challenge. He is earning his position the hard way, working his way into first-team reps through dedication and sheer effort. His offseason regimen was grueling, involving five days a week of intense training until the start of training camp. Dean reflected on this effort, saying, "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 has teamed up with veteran linebacker Devin White, benefitting from his experience and synergy on the field. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has been particularly encouraging of Dean's progress. In one notable moment during Saturday's practice, Dean laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception on the first play of 11-on-11s. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at wide receiver DeVonta Smith, further showcasing his defensive versatility.
Embodying Physicality and Aggression
The Eagles have been longing for a more physical approach in their defensive plays, and Dean is epitomizing this newfound aggressiveness. Bobby King, the new linebackers coach, has been instrumental in enabling Dean to fully embrace his physical playing style. Dean acknowledges King's influence, stating, "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."
Despite the reduced tackling in training camp, Dean aims to add a physical edge to every play. He explained, "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." This approach has been well-received by his offensive counterparts, with Dean noting, "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."
Securing His Role
Dean's versatility as a linebacker sets him apart. He can cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback with equal proficiency. "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," Dean emphasized.
His continued hard work and standout performances are pushing him closer to securing that starting linebacker position for Week 1. "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," Dean said, reflecting his dedication and focus.
As the Eagles gear up for the season, Dean's camp performance aligns perfectly with his expectations. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he stated confidently. With block destruction, blitzing, and tackling as the focal points of training camp, Dean is poised to become a central figure in the Eagles' defense.
Nakobe Dean's journey is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As he steps into his third year in the NFL, he is not just looking to return but to rise to new heights, embodying the physicality and aggressiveness that the Philadelphia Eagles have yearned for.