The Philadelphia Eagles had one of the best linebacker duos in the league last season. Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean helped anchor an Eagles’ defense that shut down many of the league’s best offenses. Unfortunately, Dean suffered a torn patellar tendon in the playoffs and now has to go through some heavy rehab to get back on the field. In a recent interview, he revealed he is using a unique activity in rehab to help with flexibility.
Philadelphia Eagles Nakobe Dean Rehab Update
Nakobe Dean is using ballet as a part of his rehab. Ballet uses a lot of stretching to help with flexibility. The former third-round pick wants to make sure his knee is stronger than ever when he gets back on the field. Speaking with NBC’s Brendan Brightman and Matt DeLucia, the Philadelphia Eagles linebacker talked about how much the activity is helping him.
“There’s way more flexibility, of course. Way more mobility. It’s definitely something that’s helping with my rehab. You just feel a change immediately. After you stretch, you’re not as tight or as sore.”
Dean made it clear he isn’t really that interested in ballet, but has loved it for his recovery. Last year, he won the starting job and looked great. The former Georgia Bulldog racked up 128 total tackles, three sacks, two fumble recoveries, and an interception. He will need to make sure he is in the best shape of his life because there is some stiff competition when he gets back on the field.
Lots Of Linebackers
The Philadelphia Eagles signed Baun to a huge extension at the beginning of the offseason. They then spent their first-round pick on Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell. This also isn’t the first major injury the young linebacker has suffered. In the 2023 season, he only played in five games before suffering a foot injury. Depending on how he looks when he gets back, the Eagles could decide to move forward with other players.
Final Thoughts
The Philadelphia Eagles have a glut of talent. Even if they decide to move on from the linebacker, he will likely draw some interest from other teams because of his production from last year. For now, all eyes are on his rehab and when he can make his 2025 debut.