Nakobe Dean Shines Brightly as He Eyes Starting Role with Philadelphia Eagles
Sunday marked a significant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, following a difficult summer marred by a foot injury. Dean's recent performance has been nothing short of impressive, signaling that he’s more than ready to step up as a key defensive player for the Eagles.
Last year, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role, but this season, he is earning it through sheer grit and determination. Gradually working his way into first-team reps, Dean has shown a commendable resilience and work ethic that hasn't gone unnoticed.
Healing and Hard Work
"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 stated. His grueling offseason regimen is paying off, allowing him to approach the game with renewed vigor and a heightened physicality that has caught the attention of both coaches and teammates.
The impact of his improved fitness was evident during Saturday's practice, where Dean made two notable plays. On the first play of 11-on-11s, he laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith, showcasing his versatility and quick thinking on the field.
Defensive Reinforcement
The Eagles’ defense has been yearning for more physical plays, and Dean is epitomizing this newfound aggressiveness. "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 remarked, describing his approach to maintaining a physical edge despite reduced tackling in camp.
New linebackers coach Bobby King has played a crucial role in Dean's development, enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style. Dean credits King with helping him focus 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," Dean elaborated.
Encouragement and Expectations
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has expressed encouragement in Dean's progress. Fangio’s defensive philosophy aligns well with Dean's strengths, further boosting his readiness to secure the starting linebacker position for Week 1. Dean himself feels optimistic about his prospects. "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," he shared.
Gaining Respect on Both Sides of the Ball
Dean's physical approach has been well-received not just by his defensive counterparts but also by the offensive players. "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. This mutual respect underscores the holistic team effort in nurturing a tougher, more resilient Eagles squad.
Dean's versatility as a linebacker is another asset that sets him apart. "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 asserted, underscoring his all-rounded capabilities.
Poised for a Breakout Season
As the NFL season approaches, Nakobe Dean stands closer than ever to securing his place as a starting linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles. With his relentless offseason training, his ability to embrace and amplify his physical playing style, and the strategic support from his coaches, Dean is more than ready to take on the challenges ahead.
With a few more performances like this past Sunday's, Nakobe Dean is poised not just to meet but to exceed the high expectations placed upon him, epitomizing the tenacity and physicality that the Eagles aspire their defense to embody.