Eagles Activate Nakobe Dean Ahead of NFC East Clash

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The Philadelphia Eagles activated linebacker Nakobe Dean off the reserve/physically unable to perform list ahead of their NFC East matchup on Thursday night. However, they will be without defensive tackle Carter, who was ruled inactive due to a heel injury discovered just before kickoff.

Dean, 24, returned to the field for the first time in nine months after suffering a torn patellar tendon in his left knee during the Eagles’ wild-card playoff win in January. His first on-field work since the injury comes as the team prepares for a crucial game against their division rivals.

Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio addressed Dean’s potential role, saying, ‘Because he hadn’t had any [2025] game experience, no training camp — it wouldn’t be a full-time role yet.’ Dean joins a linebacker group that already includes All-Pro and rookie standout Jihaad Campbell.

Fangio assured fans that they will make adjustments, stating, ‘We’ll figure it out.’ Before his injury, Dean was having an impressive 2024 season, with 128 tackles, nine tackles for loss, three sacks, and an interception.

Drafted in the third round out of Georgia in 2022, Dean has faced multiple injuries during his NFL career, notably missing significant time in the 2023 season due to foot injuries. Despite these setbacks, his performance in 2024 showcased his explosive talent as a linebacker.

The Eagles are looking to maintain momentum in their quest for successive Super Bowl appearances. With the depth and skill within their linebacker corps, and the guidance of Fangio, they are competing to solidify the best defense in the league.