On Friday morning, Philadelphia Eagles fans received some disappointing news as veteran linebacker Nakobe Dean posted on Instagram that he will not be activated this week ahead of the team’s game against the Denver Broncos.
The Eagles confirmed that decision later on Friday, as the team ruled Dean out, according to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network. The hope was that Dean would play this Sunday, given that Philadelphia opened up his 21-day practice window on Wednesday.
However, due to the nature of his injury (torn patella tendon), plus the long layoff (he hasn’t played since January), the Eagles likely didn’t want to push Dean out there until he’s ready to go. It also helps that rookie Jihaad Campbell has thrived playing alongside All-Pro Zack Baun to start the season.
That said, the question that Eagles fans will want to know the answer to is, when will Dean play?
When Could Nakobe Dean Make His 2025 Debut?
After this weekend’s game against the Broncos, the Eagles have a quick turnaround as they will play the New York Giants on Thursday night to kick off Week 6.
As Zach Berman of The Athletic points out, the Eagles won’t have practice next week; instead, it will just be a walkthrough. He then poses the question of whether the Eagles will wait till Week 7 against the Minnesota Vikings to activate him.
At that point, Philadelphia should be able to get him a week of practice, and it would still be within the 21-day activation window. Since he hasn't played since the NFC wildcard game against the Green Bay Packers, the more practice reps Dean can get, the better it will help him in preparation for his debut.
Therefore, if you’re an Eagles fan, Week 7 is likely the best bet for Dean’s debut. The Vikings aren't the easiest opponent, especially with their offensive weapons at WR and TE. That said, the Eagles need to look out for the betterment of the player.
The idea of adding Dean to this Eagles’ front seven in some capacity in a couple of weeks will only help the defense against the run and pass. Now, how much Dean plays when he returns is a wait-and-see because the Eagles likely do not want to screw up what they have with Campbell and Baun.
However, we’re still maybe a couple of weeks or so away from figuring out that reality.