Eagles' Nolan Smith 'Ready to Follow' Nakobe Dean: 'My Dog!'

Philadelphia Eagles rookie Nolan Smith had nothing but good things to say about how Nakobe Dean leads the defense.

Philadelphia Eagles rookie linebacker Nolan Smith spoke about the way linebacker Nakobe Dean carries himself.

"Stay ready you ain't gotta get ready," Smith said. "My dog been ready, he been doing this since day one. I ain't worried about that, I'm ready to follow him."

Dean and Smith were both at the University of Georgia from 2019-2021. Dean was drafted by the Eagles in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft. A year later, they drafted Smith with the No. 30 overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Dean was voted as a permanent team captain by his teammates during his time with the Bulldogs. 

"He been the signal caller at Georgia for three years in a row," Smith said. "I know how hard coach Smart is on him and I know what he expects from his self."

In addition to Smith and Dean, former Bulldog defenders Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis and Kelee Ringo have all become members of the Eagles in the last two years. 

In Dean's first season with Philadelphia, he mostly played a backup role and was featured on special teams. Now, with the departure of starting linebackers T.J. Edwards and Kyzir White, he will likely see a significant amount of time at the starting linebacker position.

His teammates seem to believe that he is ready for the step up, and will be a great leader on the defense. 

"When you a high standard person and hold yourself to a high standard," Smith said. "People will follow behind you every day, and that's what Nakobe is for me."

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