A Turning Point for Nakobe Dean
Sunday marked a significant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, who showcased an impressive display despite a summer plagued by a foot injury. Dean's performance stood out, demonstrating that his hard-earned progress is paying off.
Last season, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role. This year, however, he's earning it through relentless effort. Dean has steadily worked his way into first-team reps, embodying the Eagles' craving for more physical plays from their defense. His recent contributions suggest he’s close to securing that starting linebacker position for Week 1 of the upcoming NFL season.
Dean's hard work and resilience shone through during Saturday's practice. On the first play of 11-on-11s, he made a statement by laying out running back Will Shipley following a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith, further showcasing his remarkable defensive skills.
Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, Dean’s development has garnered positive feedback. Fangio's defensive philosophy has been particularly beneficial for Dean, who has adjusted well to the new strategies. Dean's focused dedication to block destruction, blitzing, and tackling during training camp has clearly paid off.
Dean credits the new linebackers coach, Bobby King, with enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style. "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 stated. This emphasis on physical play aligns perfectly with Dean's own rigorous offseason regimen, which included five days a week of training until camp began.
Dean reflected on his challenging offseason: "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." This relentless dedication has allowed him to not only recover from his injury but to enhance his overall performance.
Dean's versatility as a linebacker is a significant asset for the Eagles. His ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback makes him an invaluable player. "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 explained.
Though preseason games have seen limited participation from offensive starters, the physical approach Dean brings to his position has been well-received by his offensive counterparts. "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 noted. His intensity during practice plays a critical role in preparing the team for the regular season.
Despite the reduced tackling in camp, Dean's commitment to adding a physical edge to every play remains unwavering. "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 said, emphasizing his desire to maintain a high level of physicality even in a controlled training environment.
As Dean continues to push himself and meets his own high expectations, his performance in training camp reflects his potential to make significant contributions to the Eagles' defense this season. "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 remarked.
In his third year in the NFL, Nakobe Dean is proving that his dedication, hard work, and physical prowess make him a critical component of the Philadelphia Eagles' defense. With a strong training camp performance and the endorsement of key coaches, Dean is on the verge of solidifying his role as a starting linebacker—a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.