A Turning Point for Nakobe Dean
Sunday marked a turning point for Nakobe Dean, the Philadelphia Eagles linebacker who has battled his way back from a summer hampered by a foot injury. Last year, Dean was handed a starting role, but this season, he’s earning his position the hard way, gradually working his way into first-team reps.
Dean's performance this past Sunday was nothing short of impressive, showcasing the kind of physical edge the Eagles' defense has been yearning for. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has taken note of Dean's progress, and on the first play of 11-on-11s during Saturday's practice, Dean made an immediate impact by laying out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass intended for DeVonta Smith.
For Dean, this aggressive style of play is precisely what the Eagles need, and it's what he aims to deliver. "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 shared, emphasizing his dedication and determination to excel.
Embracing Physicality
Bobby King, the new linebackers coach, has been instrumental in enabling Dean to fully embrace his physical playing style. Dean credits King for pushing him towards this newfound aggressiveness which has been well-received even by his offensive counterparts. "Offensive guys have embraced it. They embraced the toughness. They want a feel. The offensive starters 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.
Fangio's defensive philosophy has also benefitted Dean, who believes that the kind of linebacker he is necessitates versatility. "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 said with confidence.
Building Towards Week 1
Dean's camp performance aligns well with his high expectations. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he remarked. His offseason regimen was grueling, filled with five days a week of strenuous training. Now, in training camp, his focus has been on block destruction, blitzing, and tackling, all universal themes emphasized by the coaching staff.
"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 elaborated, underscoring the comprehensive approach to linebacker duties.
However, Dean acknowledges that despite the focus on these elements, tackling during camp has been reduced. "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, expressing his desire to maintain a physical edge in every play.
Future Prospects
As Week 1 approaches, Dean is closer than ever to securing that starting linebacker position. He remains grounded, though, understanding that the only thing he can control is his daily effort and continuous improvement. "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," Dean stated.
Nakobe Dean's journey is a testament to his resilience and hard work. The Eagles' defense, under Fangio's guidance, is steadily evolving, and Dean's physicality is shaping up to be a key component in their strategy. As the season draws near, the team's expectations and Dean's personal goals seem to be aligning perfectly, setting the stage for what could be a breakout year for the young linebacker.