Turning the Tide: Nakobe Dean's Resurgence
Sunday marked a decisive turning point for Nakobe Dean. The Philadelphia Eagles linebacker delivered an impressive performance that contrasted sharply with a summer overshadowed by a foot injury. This standout display solidified Dean's determination to earn his position on merit, a path that has seen him gradually work his way into first-team reps this season.
Last year, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role, but this season, he is fighting for it. Partnering with fellow linebacker Devin White, Dean has showcased resilience and growth under the guidance of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who has shown encouragement in his progress. Highlighting his physicality, Dean set the tone during Saturday's practice by flattening running back Will Shipley on the first play of 11-on-11 drills and breaking up a pass intended for DeVonta Smith moments later.
Fangio's defensive philosophy has been instrumental in Dean's development. The Eagles have longed for more physical plays from their defense, and Dean epitomizes this newfound aggressiveness. "I didn't have a day off, I didn't have an offseason," Dean said. "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."
The grueling offseason regimen has paid dividends, as Dean is on the cusp of securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1. This is Dean's third year in the NFL, and he remains focused on maintaining his edge. "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 remarked.
The contributions of new linebackers coach Bobby King cannot be overlooked. Dean credits King for enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style, a crucial factor in his recent success. King's emphasis on block destruction, blitzing, and tackling has been a universal topic in training camp, according to Dean. "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," Dean explained.
Though training camps typically feature reduced tackling, Dean strives to add a physical edge to every play. "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. This physical approach has resonated well with his offensive counterparts, who appreciate the toughness Dean brings. "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," he noted.
Dean's versatility as a linebacker sets him apart. His ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback, are attributes he prides himself on. "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.
As the Eagles inch closer to the start of the regular season, all eyes will be on Dean to maintain the intensity and physicality that have so far defined his training camp. His journey from an injury-plagued summer to a potentially pivotal role in the Eagles' defense speaks volumes about his determination and resilience. For Dean, the path to earning his starting position may have been arduous, but it's a challenge he has embraced wholeheartedly. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," Dean said, reflecting the confidence that has driven his resurgence.