Philadelphia, PA – June 25, 2025
A Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive cornerstone has officially been cleared to return to full football activities, sources confirmed to ESPN. The former college champion, speaking as training camp opened at the NovaCare Complex, expressed his excitement at rejoining his teammates and finally getting the chance to prove his worth on the field.
The player missed nearly the entire 2024 season after suffering a foot injury that required surgery in Week 6. The long road back included months of intensive rehab and countless hours in the film room. Now, after nearly nine months of recovery, he’s ready to reassert himself in the heart of the Eagles’ defense.
“I’m back with my brothers, and I feel like I’ve grown more off the field than ever before,” Nakobe Dean said Wednesday. “This training camp is everything for me. Last year hurt — not just physically, but mentally. But I’m ready to show Philly why I was brought here.”
Drafted in the third round in 2022 out of Georgia, Dean was seen as one of the steals of that class, bringing with him a championship pedigree and elite instincts at the linebacker position. In 2023, he earned the green dot and was entrusted as the defensive signal-caller before injuries derailed his progress. His absence last year left a noticeable gap in the team’s ability to control the middle of the field.
“Not being able to help while watching my guys battle every week was the hardest part,” Dean shared. “But I leaned on my faith, my family, and this city. They carried me through.”
Early camp reps have already showcased Dean’s quick diagnosis skills, sideline-to-sideline speed, and vocal leadership. “He’s our spark,” said head coach Nick Sirianni. “His command of the defense, even in walk-throughs, reminds you why we believe in him.”
His return adds stability to a linebacker corps that saw significant turnover in the offseason. With Devin White now beside him, Dean is expected to step into a breakout role as the emotional and strategic centerpiece of the Eagles’ defense.
The Eagles are gearing up for a statement 2025 campaign, with Jalen Hurts leading a potent offense and a reloaded front seven on defense. Dean’s return could be the catalyst the team needs to reclaim NFC dominance.
At just 24, Dean is focused and determined. “I’ve waited long enough. It’s time to fly,” he said.
His comeback fuels the Eagles’ hopes and gives fans a powerful story of resilience — one that could define their season.
Stay tuned to ESPN.
