Nakobe Dean’s Journey to Eagles Stardom
Sunday marked a significant milestone for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, who turned heads with a standout performance following a grueling summer hindered by a foot injury. Despite the setback, Dean's display this past Sunday was nothing short of extraordinary, marking a pivotal moment in his journey toward securing his place on the team.
Last season, Dean was thrust into a starting linebacker role, but this year, he is earning his position through sheer determination and hard work. Having gradually worked his way into first-team reps, Dean's persistence is beginning to pay dividends. Teaming up with Devin White, Dean has impressed both teammates and coaches with his tenacity and skill.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has been particularly vocal in his encouragement of Dean's progress. During Saturday's practice, Dean made an impact right from the first play of the 11-on-11s, famously laying out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception and subsequently breaking up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith. These high-energy plays are precisely what the Eagles have been yearning for, epitomizing the newfound aggressiveness in their defense that Dean embodies.
Much of Dean's success can be attributed to the guidance of new linebackers coach Bobby King. Dean credits King with helping him fully embrace and channel his physical playing style. Reflecting on his offseason regimen, Dean shared, "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's rigorous training and dedication are now paving the way for him to secure a starting linebacker position for Week 1. Having spent three years in the NFL, he is keenly aware of the unpredictable nature of the sport but remains focused on what he can control. "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."
During training camp, Fangio's defensive philosophy heavily benefitted Dean, with a particular emphasis on block destruction, blitzing, and 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, so it's been kind of a universal topic we've been on in camp," Dean explained.
Despite reduced contact during camp, Dean strives 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 remarked. This approach has been well-received by offensive counterparts who value the toughness Dean brings, even though offensive starters have not played in preseason games. "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's versatility as a linebacker is another asset the Eagles are keen to utilize. He possesses the ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback—all essential skills for a modern NFL linebacker. "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 asserted.
As the regular season approaches, Nakobe Dean's journey is a testament to resilience and unwavering commitment. His relentless offseason training and the embodiment of toughness on the field have positioned him as an emerging star in the Eagles’ defense, ready to make his mark in the NFL.