Turning Point for Nakobe Dean as He Strives for Eagles' Starting Linebacker Position
Sunday marked a pivotal moment for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean. After enduring a challenging summer due to a foot injury, Dean showcased an impressive performance that stood out and caught the attention of coaches and teammates alike.
Last season, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role, but this year, he is earning it through sheer determination and hard work. Dean has been gradually working his way into first-team reps, and his efforts are not going unnoticed.
Dean’s recent performance exemplifies the fruit of his laborious 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," Dean reflected. "It's like I'm not back, I'm better."
Dean’s journey this season is significantly different from last year. He has been showing an aggressive edge in every play, which the Eagles have been yearning for from their defense. His ability to deliver physical plays has been a welcome addition to the team's strategy.
During Saturday's practice, on the first play of 11-on-11s, Dean laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception, setting the tone for his aggressive style of play. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at wide receiver DeVonta Smith, further solidifying his impact on the field.
This newfound aggressiveness is something that Dean attributes to the coaching influence within the team. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has shown encouragement in Dean's progress, and new linebackers coach Bobby King has enabled Dean to fully embrace his physical playing style. Dean credits King for this transformation: "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."
The dedication and relentless work ethic were evident during the offseason, where Dean trained rigorously to overcome his foot injury. His regimen included five days a week of training, which has paid off as he inches closer to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1.
Dean’s ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback adds to his versatility as a linebacker. He emphasized the importance of being an all-around 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."
Despite reduced tackling during training camp, Dean has maintained his physical approach. "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 explained. This has been well-received by his offensive counterparts, as Dean noted, "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 camp performance has aligned with his expectations and has been duly noted by the coaching staff. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he stated confidently. With the start of the season looming, the Eagles may very well find themselves with a reinvigorated and vital presence on their defensive lineup in Nakobe Dean.