PFF expects one unproven Eagles player to make major jump in 2023
Once thought of as a first-round talent out of Georgia, Nakobe Dean fell right into the Philadelphia Eagles’ lap in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Now clear of injury concerns and with one year of NFL experience under his belt, Dean is ready to make a significant stride in his second season. […]
Once thought of as a first-round talent out of Georgia, Nakobe Dean fell right into the Philadelphia Eagles’ lap in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Now clear of injury concerns and with one year of NFL experience under his belt, Dean is ready to make a significant stride in his second season.
Dean stand to be the primary beneficiary of Eagles offseason departures in T.J. Edwards and Kyzir White. Entering his sophomore season, the Eagles are hoping Dean has what it takes to lead the middle of their top tier defense.
Though Dean didn’t receive much playing time as a rookie, his experience playing alongside some of his former college teammates should not go overlooked. If he is able to put it all together in 2023, there is no reason why Dean can’t lead the Eagles defense back to the promised land when February rolls around.
There is no question that Dean has all of the traits and characteristics in order to develop into a Pro Bowl caliber linebacker for Philly. In fact, Pro Football Focus recently named him to their 2023 All-Breakout Team.
From PFF: As the leader of an all-time great defense at Georgia in 2021, Dean was projected by many to be a first-round pick in the 2022 draft. Concerns over his shoulder caused him to drop to the third round, though, and Dean only played 47 defensive snaps during the Eagles’ run to an NFC championship. With the departures of T.J. Edwards and Kyzir White in the offseason, Dean will have every opportunity to take over the middle of this Eagles defense as they attempt to return to the Super Bowl.
Dean brings a unique skillset to the linebacker position. His versatility allows him to produce not only against the run, but in the passing game as well.
Training camp will be critical for the former Georgia standout as it provides him with an opportunity to familiarize himself in Sean Desai’s new defensive scheme, as well as earn the trust of some of his veteran teammates. If all goes as planned, Dean will be a player analysts won’t be able to ignore for the duration of the 2023 season.
Featured image via Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports
