Nakobe Dean: Rising to the Challenge
Sunday marked a turning point for Nakobe Dean, the Philadelphia Eagles linebacker who displayed remarkable prowess despite a summer compromised by a foot injury. Dean's performance this past Sunday was undeniably exceptional, signifying a breakthrough moment in his young career.
Last year, Dean was readily given a starting linebacker role. This season, however, he is earning his spot through sheer perseverance and hard work. Dean has steadily integrated himself into first-team reps, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the team.
"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, reflecting on his arduous journey back to full fitness.
Teaming up with fellow linebacker Devin White, Dean has become a focal point in defensive coordinator Vic Fangio's plans. On Saturday, during an 11-on-11 drill, Dean made a notable impact by tackling running back Will Shipley after a pass reception and subsequently breaking up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith. These highlights underscore the physical style the Eagles have been craving from their defense.
Nakobe Dean personifies this newfound aggressiveness. Bobby King, the new linebackers coach, has been instrumental in helping him embrace a more 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 a universal topic we've been on in camp," Dean remarked.
Dean's grueling offseason regimen, which included rigorous training five days a week, has paid dividends. He attributes part of his growth to Fangio's defensive philosophy, which has enabled him to inch closer to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1. This season marks Dean's three-year tenure in the NFL, and his aspirations are clear. "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 said.
Throughout training camp, block destruction, blitzing, and tackling have taken center stage. Despite the reduced tackling in camp, Dean has managed to add a physical edge to every play, much to the approval of 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 explained.
Dean's versatility as a linebacker makes him an invaluable asset for the Eagles. Whether covering, filling the A-gap, or blitzing the quarterback, he excels in all aspects of the game. As he aptly put it, "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."
As the regular season approaches, Dean's determination and hard work have positioned him favorably to claim the starting linebacker spot. More importantly, his relentless drive and integral role in the Eagles' defense underscore a promising future for both Dean and the team. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he reflected, encapsulating a sentiment that undoubtedly resonates with his coaches and teammates alike.