Nakobe Dean Shines Amid Adversity
Sunday marked a turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, as he delivered an impressive display after a summer marked by a foot injury. Dean's performance stood out, highlighting his commitment and resilience as he worked his way into first-team reps, following an offseason filled with rigorous training.
Last year, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role, but this season he is earning it the hard way. Dean teamed up with Devin White, another formidable force on the defense, under the watchful eye of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Fangio has been vocal about his encouragement in Dean's progress, signaling the linebacker’s potential to reclaim his starting position.
During Saturday's practice, Dean showcased his physical prowess from the very first play. He laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception, and moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith. These plays epitomized the aggressiveness the Eagles have been yearning for from their defense, and Dean is leading by example.
This newfound physicality on defense can be attributed in part to Bobby King, the new linebackers coach. Dean credits King with enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style. “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 elaborated on his grueling offseason regimen.
Fangio's defensive philosophy has also greatly benefitted Dean, aiding him in inching closer to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1. Reflecting on his path, this marks Dean's third year in the NFL, and he remains focused on his goals. “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 stated.
Dean's camp performance has aligned with his expectations, as he emphasized block destruction, blitzing, and tackling during training. “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 detailed. 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 two-handed touch always. I want to thud,” he added.
Dean's physical approach has been well-received by his offensive counterparts. The offensive starters, who have not played in the preseason games, have embraced the toughness. “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.
Versatility is a hallmark of Dean's playing style. As a linebacker, he possesses the ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback. “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 said confidently.
With his relentless work ethic and physical presence on the field, Nakobe Dean is poised to make a significant impact this season. His journey from injury recovery to earning first-team reps reflects his dedication and resilience, qualities that will undoubtedly benefit the Philadelphia Eagles' defense as they head into the new football season.