Debunking theories stating Eagles LB Nakobe Dean's size will hinder his success

When the Philadelphia Eagles selected Nakobe Dean with the 83rd overall selection, during the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, many of the draft experts and sports pundits claimed he was one of the biggest steals. One year later, there are questions. Some are curious as to what he might provide as the defensive play-caller in Sean Desai's scheme while others seem to be leaning more toward theories that he'll ultimately be a bust.

The big concern? We've heard the phrase a time or two. Dean lacks the size of a prototypical linebacker. This concern is strictly rooted in bias towards larger players. You have all heard the phrase before. As the old adage states, "You can't teach size." While that may be true, smaller players have been making a major impact in the NFL for years. The question is can Dean follow that trend? Again, everyone has an opinion.

First things first. The myth that Nakobe Dean is too small to play linebacker in the NFL needs to be immediately debunked. He measures five-foot-eleven in height and tips the scales at 231 pounds. Bobby Wagner has been considered one of the best linebackers in the NFL over the last 20 years. He stands at six-foot-tall and weighs 241 pounds.

This is not meant to serve as a projection that Dean will elevate his game to the level we have seen Wagner perform, Truly, no one knows if that will happen, We can, however, draw conclusions that state they're similar in stature. Knowing that should ease concerned minds and put and end to some of the skepticism.

Nakobe Dean will flourish with the Eagles during the 2023 NFL season. You just wait and see.

With T.J. Edwards being a former undrafted product and guys like Alex Singleton and Nigel Bradham being guys Philly found in free agency, one can argue that Jordan Hicks was the last standout linebacker the Eagles utilized significant draft capital on. He hasn't been a part of this team since 2018.

Since his exit, the Birds have been very clear about how they value the position. The business model has long involved strengthening the defensive line and then the secondary,

Despite that theory, whether the defensive coordinator has been Jim Schwartz or Jonathan Gannon, the defensive philosophy requires Eagles linebackers to roam and make a lion's share of the tackles. That has often led to nice statistical showings by the second level, making Philadelphia the perfect place for a slightly undersized linebacker with explosive tendencies. Trust us on this one. Dean is going to be fine.

The former Georgia Bulldog was a standout player in the most physical conference college football has to offer: The SEC. He excelled at flowing to the football and filling gaps but also showcased other attributes.

With his massive Bulldog buddies Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis eating up space in the trenches, there will be plenty of gaps and alleyways for Dean to attack. Veterans on the team have already been impressed by his command of the defense as the new play caller. He has the respect of his coaches. Expect his explosive playstyle to impress the fans once the season begins.

This is a phenomenal talent with a nice physical and athletic arsenal. While it may be to early to forecast the future, his present standing should warrant excitement.

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