Nakobe Dean entered the NFL with the hopes of becoming a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles defense, but as he nears the final year of his rookie contract, injuries and increased competition from younger players could lead to the team letting him walk after the 2025 season.
Jimmy Kempski of the Philly Voice thinks that’s a very likely outcome.
Led by Zack Baun, who signed a three‑year, $51 million extension following a breakout 2024 campaign, the Eagles have an intriguing LBs room. They drafted rookie LB Jihaad Campbell at No. 31 in 2025, with Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Smael Mondon Jr. and Dallas Gant behind him.
Unfortunately, Dean suffered a torn left patellar tendon in the playoffs. Recovery from that particular injury typically takes six months to a year, and varies with each player. The Eagles put him on the PUP list at the start of training camp, so he’ll miss at least the first four games of the season. Kempski thinks how he fits into the mold when he returns will be extremely telling.
Philadelphia Eagles May not Re-Sign Nakobe Dean at End of 2025 Season
“How does Dean fit in, long-term?” Kempski wondered. “Baun is under contract through 2027. Campbell is under contract through at least the next four seasons, plus a fifth-year option. Dean is going to want to start after his productive 2024 season, but if Baun and Campbell ball out this season, that opportunity might not be with the Eagles in 2026 and beyond. Add in that the Eagles also may have good, young depth in Trotter and Smael Mondon, and I think it’s hard to see Dean with the team next year.”
Expectations were high after Philly selected him in the third round of the 2022 draft at No. 83 overall, but he had a slow start. After playing just 3% of Philly’s defensive snaps as a rookie, Dean suffered a foot injury early in the 2023 season.
He was limited to just five games and 82 total defensive snaps in 2023, finishing with 30 total tackles (two for loss), a QB hit and half a sack.
In 2024, he returned to the fray as the team’s starting middle linebacker, and he had the best season of his young career. In 15 starts, Dean amassed 128 total tackles (nine for loss), six QB hits, four pass breakups, 3.0 sacks, a forced fumble and his first career interception.
The 2026 Season Will Be Huge for Dean
Looking ahead to 2026, it’s clear there’s growing speculation that the Eagles may choose not to re-sign Dean when his rookie deal expires. Unless he has another standout season in 2025, it’s possible the Eagles view him as replaceable rather than a long-term fixture.
Another factor working against Dean’s future in Philadelphia is the emergence of younger, healthier options at linebacker. The team’s investment in Trotter Jr. — whose father was an Eagles legend — could spell trouble. Trotter Jr. has flashed upside and could carve out a nice role with a strong camp and preseason. If Dean cannot get back up to speed this season, the writing’s on the wall.
If he drastically outperforms expectations and stays healthy once returning, this could turn into a different conversation. But beginning the year on the PUP list won’t help, and if Campbell, Trotter or both show playmaking abilities, Dean’s days in an Eagles uniform are likely numbered.
