Philadelphia won't have one of its key starters for the remainder of the 2024 playoffs.
Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean suffered a torn patellar tendon in Sunday's wild-card win over the Packers, an MRI revealed Monday, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported, per sources.
Not only will the knee injury keep Dean out of Philly's 2024 postseason run, but the third-year LB faces a long recovery ahead as he will likely miss the start of the 2025 season.
Dean suffered the injury early in the second quarter while bringing down Packers tight end Tucker Kraft behind the line of scrimmage, his second tackle for loss of the night.
Dean, who had been leading the Eagles in tackles (six) in the early going, was quickly ruled out of the game before getting carted to the locker room. After the game, the 24-year-old was seen on crutches and wearing a bulky knee brace.
A former third-round pick, Dean excelled in his first full season as a starter, finishing second on the team in tackles (128) while also producing three sacks, one interception, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. His energetic play makes up for his undersized frame, and his sure-handed clean-up behind a stout Eagles defensive line was instrumental in Philly leading the league in defense in 2024.
Dean is also the signal-caller for Vic Fangio's unit. Zack Baun had the green dot on his helmet for the remainder of Sunday's win, and Oren Burks, who caused a fumble on the opening kickoff on Sunday, took Dean's place and finished with four tackles.
