Nakobe Dean: Earning His Stripes in Philadelphia
Sunday marked a pivotal day for Nakobe Dean, the Philadelphia Eagles linebacker who has been striving to make an impact despite facing setbacks. Following a summer hindered by a foot injury, Dean showcased his determination and resilience with a standout performance that underscored his potential.
Dean's journey hasn't been straightforward. Last year, he was handed a starting linebacker role, but this season, the path to the top has been more rugged. Battling through adversity, Dean has gradually clawed his way back to earning first-team reps, proving his mettle through relentless effort and perseverance.
In recent practices, Dean has exhibited the kind of physicality that the Eagles defense has been yearning for. During Saturday’s 11-on-11 drills, Dean made his presence felt immediately by laying out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass intended for DeVonta Smith, leaving no doubt about his readiness to compete at the highest level.
Encouraged by defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, Dean has been aligning with the aggressive defense that the Eagles aspire to embody. Fangio’s defensive philosophy seems to be a perfect match for Dean, who encapsulates the newfound physical nature that the team is striving for.
Dean attributes much of his progress to the guidance of Bobby King, the Eagles' new linebackers coach. "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 a universal topic we've been on in camp," Dean explained.
The offseason was grueling for Dean, involving five days a week of rigorous training to bounce back from his foot injury. "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," he stated, highlighting his relentless work ethic and resilience.
Despite the physical demands and limited tackling in camp, Dean remains focused on maintaining a physical edge in 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 two-handed touch always. I want to thud," said Dean.
It’s not just the defense that has taken note of Dean’s physical playing style. Offensive players have also welcomed his assertiveness. "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 shared.
As a versatile linebacker, Dean prides himself on being able to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback effectively. "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 expressed with confidence.
Dean's commitment, hard work, and tenacity have not gone unnoticed. He is closer than ever to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1, a testament to his unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of excellence.
"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 emphasized. As he continues to impress in training camp, Dean’s performance is living up to his own high expectations. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he concluded.
Nakobe Dean's journey may have been fraught with challenges, but his resilience and work ethic make him a beacon of hope for the Philadelphia Eagles' defense. As Week 1 approaches, all eyes will be on Dean to see if he can convert his potential into consistent performance against the league's best.