A Turnaround Season for Nakobe Dean
Sunday marked a significant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean. After enduring a challenging summer marred by a foot injury, Dean's standout performance this past weekend has firmly placed him back in the spotlight.
Overcoming Setbacks
Last year, Dean was assigned a starting linebacker role, but this season sees him earning his position through grit and perseverance. "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 reveals. His dedication is paying off as he gradually works his way into first-team reps, showcasing his commitment to improvement and resilience.
Strengthening the Defense
Assistant coach Devin White has teamed up with Dean, and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has been vocal about his encouragement for Dean's progress. During Saturday's practice, on the first play of 11-on-11 drills, Dean made an impressive tackle on running back Will Shipley after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at wide receiver DeVonta Smith, epitomizing the newfound aggressiveness the Eagles have been yearning for in their defense.
A Perfect Fit
Dean credits his improved performance to the influence of new linebackers coach Bobby King, saying King enabled him to fully embrace his 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 universal topic we've been on in camp," Dean explains.
Dean's offseason was grueling, consisting of five days a week of intensive training until the start of training camp. This rigorous regimen, combined with Fangio's defensive philosophy, has significantly benefited Dean, bringing him closer to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1. Despite the challenges, Dean feels optimistic: "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have."
Aiming for Consistency
With a focus on getting better each day, Dean remains modest yet determined. "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 remarks. This season, now in his third year of an NFL career, Dean has set high expectations for himself, aiming to be a dominant force on the field.
A Physical Edge
One aspect that differentiates Dean is his aggressive, physical approach to the game. With an emphasis on block destruction, blitzing, and tackling during training camp, he strives to add a physical edge to every play, notwithstanding the reduced tackling in camp. "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 shares.
His intensity has been well-received by offensive counterparts, who appreciate the sense of readiness it 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," Dean notes.
Versatile and Ready
Dean's versatility as a linebacker is another asset, encompassing skills in coverage, filling the A-gap, and blitzing the quarterback. "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," he asserts.
As the season approaches, Nakobe Dean's hard work and determination are poised to pay off, positioning him as a key player in the Philadelphia Eagles' defense. His blend of physicality, versatility, and relentless drive sets the stage for what promises to be an impactful season.