Nakobe Dean's Resurgence: A Testament to Grit and Determination
Sunday marked a poignant turning point for Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean. Following a summer where his progress was hindered by a foot injury, Dean’s performance this past Sunday decisively highlighted his remarkable comeback. The narrative of his journey has been one of grit, determination, and an unwavering desire to excel on the field.
Last year, Dean was bestowed with a starting linebacker role. However, this season, nothing has been handed to him. Dean has had to earn his role the hard way, gradually working his way into first-team repetitions. Each step has been a testament to his dedication and hard work.
One significant factor in Dean’s progress has been his partnership with Devin White, which has added an extra dimension to his defensive gameplay. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio has expressed his encouragement in Dean’s progress, recognizing the linebacker’s relentless commitment to improvement.
Training camp has been a crucial period for Dean, one where he has showcased his physical prowess and strategic acumen. During a practice session on Saturday, he made a statement with his physicality. On the first play of 11-on-11s, Dean laid out running back Will Shipley after a pass reception, and moments later, he broke up a pass aimed at DeVonta Smith. These plays epitomize the aggressive style the Eagles have been yearning for from their defense.
Dean credits a lot of his resurgence to new linebackers coach Bobby King. Under King’s guidance, Dean has embraced his physical playing style fully. "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," said Dean.
The offseason for Dean was grueling but necessary. He had no day off, dedicating five days a week to training until camp began. "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," explained Dean. This rigorous routine has brought him closer to securing that starting linebacker position for Week 1.
Despite reduced tackling in camp, Dean aims 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," Dean asserted. This mentality resonates well with his offensive counterparts, who have embraced this toughness. "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."
Beyond his physicality, Dean's versatility as a linebacker sets him apart. 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," declared Dean.
As Dean continues to hone his skills and adapt to the demands of the season, his outlook remains focused and 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 admitted. With his eyes set firmly on his goals and his performance aligning with his high expectations, Nakobe Dean is undeniably on a path to becoming an indispensable asset for the Philadelphia Eagles.