Nakobe Dean's Impressive Comeback
This past Sunday marked a significant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean. After a summer riddled with a foot injury, Dean put on an impressive display, solidifying his presence on the field. The significance of his performance is even more notable given the challenges he faced to earn his position this season.
Last year, Dean was granted a starting linebacker role. This season, however, he is earning his spot the hard way. Despite his injury setback, Dean has gradually worked his way into first-team reps, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Dean's journey has not been solitary. He has teamed up with Devin White, and the duo has been a force to be reckoned with on the field. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has been particularly encouraging of Dean's progress. Fangio's defensive philosophy appears to have benefitted Dean immensely, aiding him in getting closer to securing that starting linebacker position for Week 1.
During Saturday’s practice, Dean made a powerful statement from the very first play. In an 11-on-11 drill, he delivered a decisive hit on running back Will Shipley following a pass reception. Moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith. These displays of aggression and physicality were exactly what the Eagles had been yearning for from their defense. Nakobe Dean epitomizes this newfound aggressiveness and has become a linchpin in the Eagles' defensive strategy.
A crucial factor in Dean's development has been Bobby King, the new linebackers coach. Dean credits King with enabling him to fully embrace his physical playing style. "I didn't have a day off," Dean remarked. "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's rigorous offseason regimen included intensive training five days a week until the onset of training camp. Reflecting on his camp performance, Dean acknowledged, "I feel like I've had the kind of camp that I'm supposed to have." This level of preparation has allowed him to align his expectations with his current performance seamlessly.
In training camp, focus on block destruction, blitzing, and tackling has been emphasized. Dean noted, "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."
Even though tackling is somewhat reduced in the camp environment, Dean strives to maintain a physical edge. "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 shared. This approach has been well-received by his offensive counterparts, who appreciate the toughness and physicality. "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 is another cornerstone of his game. He prides himself on being able to cover, fill the A-gap, and blitz 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," Dean stated.
Mere weeks away from the start of the NFL season, Nakobe Dean’s name is one to watch. His determination, coupled with the physical and mental rigor he's demonstrated, has set a new standard for linebackers on the Philadelphia Eagles. Whether laying out running backs or breaking up critical passes, Dean’s performance on Sunday is a testament to his hard work and unyielding resolve. As the season progresses, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Nakobe Dean as he continues to elevate his game and influence his team’s defensive strategy.