Nakobe Dean: The Emergence of an Eagles Defensive Star
Sunday marked a significant turning point for Nakobe Dean, the Philadelphia Eagles linebacker who put on an impressive display following a summer marred by a debilitating foot injury. Dean's performance stood out unmistakably, revealing a player ready to make a definitive mark.
Having been handed a starting linebacker role last year, Dean is approaching this season with renewed vigor, determined to earn his place the hard way. His gradual progression to first-team reps speaks volumes of his work ethic and determination. Teamed up with Devin White, Dean has showcased a defensive prowess that has not gone unnoticed by defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.
Fangio has expressed encouragement in Dean's progress, citing a sharpness and physicality that the Eagles have been yearning for. During Saturday's practice, on the very first play of the 11-on-11 drills, Dean made an impactful statement by laying out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith, further emphasizing his readiness to be a pivotal defensive leader.
“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 said, summarizing his relentless offseason regimen. His dedication and commitment have undeniably positioned him closer to securing that starting linebacker position for Week 1.
Dean aptly epitomizes the newfound aggressiveness that the Eagles are incorporating into their defensive game plan. With Bobby King stepping in as the new linebackers coach, Dean credits King for enabling him to embrace his physical playing style fully. “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.
Dean's camp performance aligns squarely with his own expectations. “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.” His dedication is evident in every aspect of his game, even in a training camp environment where tackling is minimized. “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, signifying his commitment to bringing a physical edge to every play.
Offensive counterparts have also embraced Dean's approach, inviting the defensive toughness that will be crucial come game time. “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.
In his three-year career in the NFL, Dean continues to evolve and refine his versatility as a linebacker. His ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback makes him an invaluable asset to the Eagles’ defense. “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.
Under the guidance of Fangio, Dean's adherence to a rigorous training regimen and his mental fortitude are setting the stage for a standout season. Despite the challenges and injuries, his drive and focus remain unwavering. The Philadelphia Eagles are poised to benefit greatly as Nakobe Dean continues his relentless pursuit of excellence, embodying the physical and aggressive defensive mindset that the team sorely needs.