Nakobe Dean Shines in Training Camp, Eyes Starting Role
Sunday marked a turning point for Nakobe Dean, the promising linebacker of the Philadelphia Eagles. After a summer overshadowed by a foot injury, Dean delivered an impressive performance that decisively stood out as he continued to earn his place among the first-team reps.
Last year, Dean was handed a starting linebacker role with the Eagles. However, this season has been a different story, as he has had to earn his position through consistent effort and determination. During Saturday's practice, his progress was unmistakable. On the first play of the 11-on-11 drills, Dean delivered a crushing hit on running back Will Shipley following a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith, underscoring his burgeoning prowess in defense.
Dean's resilience and work ethic have paid off, particularly under the guidance of new linebackers coach Bobby King and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. King has been pivotal in helping Dean 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 noted.
Fangio's defensive philosophy has been instrumental in Dean's development, pushing him to epitomize the newfound aggressiveness that the Eagles have been yearning for in their defense. Dean's physical approach has not only been well-received by his coaches but also by 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 journey to this point has been anything but easy. He endured a grueling offseason regimen, training five days a week until training camp started. This relentless dedication is something he takes pride in. "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 asserted.
The linebacker understands the importance of versatility and aims to bring a physical edge to every play, even in a camp setting where tackling is 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.
This determination and adaptability have made Dean a standout in this year's training camp, aligning perfectly with his expectations. "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have," he mentioned. His contributions to the defense are seen as key in the Eagles' pursuit of a more physical playing style.
Entering his third year in the NFL, Dean is closer than ever to securing the starting linebacker position for Week 1. While he aims to be the first one that plays, he remains grounded in his approach. "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 said.
Dean's versatility as a linebacker is undeniable. He prides himself on his ability to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz the quarterback, making him a multifaceted asset for the Eagles' defense. "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 shared.
With his remarkable performance in camp and the support of his coaches, Nakobe Dean is on the cusp of becoming a pivotal player in the Eagles' defensive lineup. His journey of overcoming injury and earning his place through relentless effort and dedication serves as an inspiration, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence.