Source: Eagles LB Dean likely out for playoffs

PHILADELPHIA — Eagles starting linebacker Nakobe Dean is believed to have suffered a serious knee injury in Sunday’s wild-card playoff win over the Green Bay Packers and is expected to miss the remainder of the playoffs, a league source confirmed.

Dean was injured in the second quarter after wrangling tight end Tucker Kraft to the ground for a 3-yard loss on a screen play.

After being assisted off the field to the medical tent, Dean was carted inside, offering gestures of encouragement to the fan base on his way to the tunnel.

NFL Network was first to report the seriousness of Dean’s injury.

“He’s one of the true leaders on this defense,” said cornerback Darius Slay. “I know I got the ‘C’ on my chest but if there is someone I want to give my [captaincy] to, it’s him.

“It’s hurtful to see him go down like that because he is having an amazing year, playing outstanding, and I’m praying for him for a speedy recovery.”

Dean, the former Georgia standout and third-round pick in the 2022 draft, elevated to a starting role for the Eagles last season but was sidelined for all but five games due to multiple foot injuries, including a Lisfranc sprain that landed him on injured reserve in November.

He has been an impact player for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio this season, racking up 128 tackles, three sacks, nine tackles for loss, six quarterback hits and an interception during the regular season. He also was responsible for relaying defensive calls to the group, duties that went to All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun when Dean exited Sunday.

Oren Burks replaced Dean in the lineup and will likely fill in for him moving forward. Burks, who played his first six seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and Packers, had five tackles Sunday and forced a fumble on special teams on the opening kickoff, resulting in a turnover and a quick score for Philadelphia that set the tone for the game.