Eagles' Nakobe Dean Sends Public Message Before Free Agency

The linebacker makes it clear he wants to stay in Philadelphia.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 9:47pm

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Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, a pending free agent, has repeatedly stated during Super Bowl week that he hopes to re-sign with the team. Dean told NFL Network and local media outlets that he wants to remain in Philadelphia, even acknowledging it's a business decision that will require negotiations.

Why it matters

Dean's public comments about wanting to stay with the Eagles are notable given the team's offseason changes, including the loss of offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. The 25-year-old linebacker is a key part of Philadelphia's defense, and retaining him would provide stability as the franchise navigates an uncertain offseason.

The details

Dean, a 2022 third-round draft pick, has made it clear multiple times this week that he hopes to re-sign with the Eagles. He told NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, Ian Rapoport and Judy Battista on Friday night, "I do hope to be back in Philadelphia. I'm pretty sure that the team knows that. The fans know that. If you don't, then you know it now." Earlier on Friday, Dean also told local media outlet PHLY Eagles, "I want to stay. I'm pretty sure everybody knows that by now. I've said it like a million times."

  • Nakobe Dean made his comments about wanting to stay with the Eagles during Super Bowl week in early February 2026.

The players

Nakobe Dean

A 25-year-old linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles who is set to become a free agent in the 2026 offseason.

Jeff Stoutland

The former offensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles who left the team this offseason.

Zack Baun

A linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles who could potentially compete with Nakobe Dean for playing time.

Jihaad Campbell

A linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles who could potentially compete with Nakobe Dean for playing time or be used as an edge rusher.

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What they’re saying

“I do hope to be back in Philadelphia. I'm pretty sure that the team knows that. The fans know that. If you don't, then you know it now.”

— Nakobe Dean, Linebacker (NFL Network)

“I want to stay. I'm pretty sure everybody knows that by now. I've said it like a million times.”

— Nakobe Dean, Linebacker (PHLY Eagles)

What’s next

The Eagles will need to make a decision on whether to re-sign Nakobe Dean before the start of free agency. His public comments indicate a strong desire to remain in Philadelphia, but the team will have to weigh that against their other roster needs and salary cap constraints.

The takeaway

Nakobe Dean's vocal commitment to staying with the Philadelphia Eagles is a positive sign for the franchise, which has faced numerous offseason changes. Retaining the young linebacker would provide stability and continuity for the team's defense as they navigate an uncertain offseason.