Nakobe Dean: The Rising Eagle Taking Flight
Sunday marked a significant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean as he put on an impressive show, highlighting his tenacity and determination to secure a starting role amid a challenging preseason.
Overcoming Obstacles
Dean's summer was marred by a foot injury, which raised concerns about his availability and performance. However, his display this past Sunday decisively stood out, showing that the linebacker is back and, by his account, even better. "I didn't have a day off, I didn't have an offseason," Dean remarked. "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."
Last year, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role. This season, he is earning it the hard way. Despite the setback, Dean has worked his way into first-team reps, solidifying his place as a standout performer in the Eagles’ defense.
A New Defensive Dynamic
One notable aspect of Dean's progression is his partnership with Devin White and the effect of Vic Fangio's defensive philosophy. Fangio, the defensive coordinator, has shown encouragement in Dean's progress. This affirmation showed on the first play of 11-on-11s during Saturday's practice when Dean laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception, followed by breaking up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith.
The Eagles have been yearning for more physical plays from their defense, and Nakobe Dean epitomizes this newly found aggressiveness. Dean credits new linebackers coach Bobby King for enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style.
Relentless Work Ethic
Dean dedicated himself to a grueling offseason regimen. "I want to play. And I want to be the first one that plays. But I can't control that," Dean emphasized. "The only thing I can control is what I come out here and do every day, work hard and continue to get better."
Dean's efforts haven't gone unnoticed, as his camp performance aligns with his expectations. His commitment to improving block destruction, blitzing, and tackling has been a focal point of the Eagles' training camp, despite a reduction in actual tackling. "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," Dean noted.
Setting the Tone
Dean’s approach has resonated well with his offensive counterparts. "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 said, highlighting his intention to add a physical edge to every play.
Interestingly, offensive starters who haven’t played in the preseason games have embraced this toughness. "Offensive guys have embraced it. 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.
A Multifaceted Talent
Dean's versatility as a linebacker makes him a valuable asset to the Eagles. His ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback highlights his well-rounded skill set. "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 articulated.
As the regular season approaches, Nakobe Dean appears closer than ever to securing a starting linebacker position for Week 1. With three years in the NFL under his belt, Dean's relentless drive and comprehensive skill set position him as a formidable force in the Eagles' defense.
Dean's story this preseason is one of resilience and unwavering commitment. His physicality and aggressive play style are exactly what the Philadelphia Eagles need as they look to elevate their defense this season. The journey to reclaim and enhance his starting role has been arduous, but Dean’s performance suggests he is more than ready to take flight.