Turning Point for Nakobe Dean
Sunday marked a significant milestone in Nakobe Dean's professional career. The Philadelphia Eagles linebacker showcased an impressive performance, putting behind him a summer plagued by a foot injury. His display this past Sunday was not just notable but decisively standout, signaling his return to peak form.
Going into last year, Dean had the starting linebacker role handed to him. However, this season tells a different story. Dean is earning his position the hard way, gradually working his way into first-team reps and making every moment count.
Teaming Up with Devin White
One of the notable dynamics this season is Dean's partnership with Devin White. The two have formed a formidable duo under the watchful eyes of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who has been vocal in his encouragement of Dean's progress. During Saturday's practice, Dean made a statement by laying out running back Will Shipley on the first play of 11-on-11s after a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith, showcasing his comprehensive defensive skills.
Fangio's defensive philosophy has significantly benefitted Dean, who has embraced this system wholeheartedly. The Eagles, desperate for more physical plays from their defense, have found a leader in Dean. He embodies this newfound aggressiveness and is closer than ever to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1.
Bobby King's Influence
Much of Dean's development can be attributed to Bobby King, the new linebackers coach. Dean credits King with allowing him to fully embrace his physical style of play. "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.
Dean's offseason regimen was nothing short of grueling. His commitment to training five days a week until the start of camp is a testament to his dedication. This relentless preparation is paying dividends as Dean's camp performance aligns with his own high expectations. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he said, reflecting on his journey.
Training Camp Focus
The focus at training camp has been on block destruction, blitzing, and tackling. Dean explained, "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."
Despite the reduced tackling in camp, Dean is determined 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." His approach has been well-received by his offensive counterparts, who welcome the toughness. "Offensive guys have embraced it. They embraced the toughness. They want to feel it. 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 remarked.
Versatility and Vision
Dean's versatility as a linebacker is another facet of his game that stands out. He has the ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterbackâall essential skills for a modern-day linebacker. "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 confidently asserted.
As Dean's three-year career in the NFL continues to evolve, his sights are firmly set on being the first one to play. "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, encapsulating his mindset.
Nakobe Dean's journey is a testament to resilience, hard work, and an unyielding drive to improve. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on this promising linebacker, who is ready to bring his physical edge and versatile skill set to the forefront of the Eagles' defense.