Ballet seems the polar opposite of football's barbaric violence, but for generations it's tip-toed its way into the NFL. Now, thanks to Nakobe Dean, the delicate dance has found its way to the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
In the past, offensive stars such as running back Herschel Walker and receiver Lynn Swann have taken up ballet to improve their footwork, balance and strength. Dean, who suffered a torn patellar tendon injury during the Eagles' playoff run last season, is joining Philadelphia's BalletX to help his rehab.
"There's way more flexibility, of course," Dean told NBC Philadelphia. "Way more mobility. It's definitely something that's helping with my rehab. You just feel a change immediately. After you stretch, you're not as tight or as sore."
Though his new hobby is proving both exciting and beneficial, the Eagles' rising star linebacker isn't about to change professions.
"I'm more interested in the performance, looking at it... but I'm a football player through and through," Dean said. "My whole thing is trying to be the absolute best version of myself. For me, that's greatness. If I'm striving to be that everyday, and doing whatever it takes to be that."
Dean will be in Eagles' training camp by the time BalletX holds its next performances July 16-20.
Despite being an imposing physical presence, Dean has dealt with recent injuries. A torn pectoral muscle contributed to his slide in the 2022 NFL Draft and he spent time on injured reserve as a rookie with separate foot ailments.
With an expected full recovery in time for the 2025 season, the Eagles plan on Dean again pairing with All-Pro selection Zach Baun to form one of the best linebacker duos in the NFC East if not the entire NFL. They were the two leading tacklers on Philly's No. 2-ranked defense under the guidance of Vic Fangio.
Dean finished the season with 128 tackles, three sacks, two fumble recoveries and an interception.