Ex-Eagles LB Sends Emotional Goodbye to Philadelphia After Joining Raiders
Posted March 9, 2026
Las Vegas, NV - The Philadelphia Eagles are parting ways with one of the emotional leaders of their defense. Veteran linebacker Nakobe Dean has reportedly agreed to join the Las Vegas Raiders, bringing an end to a memorable chapter of his career in Philadelphia.
Dean entered the NFL when the Eagles selected him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He initially contributed on special teams before gradually earning a larger role within the defensive unit.
The defining moment of his Eagles tenure came during the 2024 season, when Dean delivered a breakout performance that showcased his full impact on the field. That year he recorded 128 tackles, three sacks, a forced fumble, two fumble recoveries, and a game-sealing interception against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
That standout season firmly established Dean as one of the defense’s most instinctive playmakers.
To secure him this offseason, the Raiders reportedly agreed to a three-year contract worth $36 million, a deal that ultimately exceeded what Philadelphia was willing to match.
Shortly after the agreement became public, Dean shared a heartfelt message to the city where his NFL career began.
“Philadelphia will always be special to me. The fans embraced me from the first day I stepped into that locker room. I gave everything I had every time I wore that jersey, and I’ll forever be grateful for the love and the memories.”
Dean’s time in Philadelphia was defined not only by big plays but also by perseverance. Injuries interrupted his progress several times, including a Lisfranc injury in 2023, a patellar tendon tear during the 2024 playoffs, and additional setbacks that forced him to miss time during the 2025 season.
Despite those challenges, Dean remained one of the most respected voices in the Eagles locker room.
When healthy during the 2025 season, he reclaimed a starting role and once again demonstrated his strengths as an aggressive blitzer and instinctive linebacker capable of disrupting opposing offenses.
Ultimately, Philadelphia’s depth at linebacker and the emergence of younger players made it difficult for the organization to match the Raiders’ contract offer.
For Dean, the move represents both a new opportunity and the beginning of a new chapter.
And while he now prepares to begin life in Las Vegas, his emotional farewell made one thing clear: his connection to Philadelphia will always remain an important part of his NFL journey. 🏈
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