Despite Jalen Hurts consistently facing more criticism than many quarterbacks with a strong winning record, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean firmly believes Hurts is unmatched in his ability to secure victories. Speaking before the Super Bowl in San Francisco, Dean highlighted the quarterback’s resilience and leadership, citing Hurts’ success amid frequent changes in coaching staff as evidence of his exceptional winning mindset.
Dean Highlights Hurts’ Consistent Success Amid Challenges
Dean emphasized Hurts’ consistent performance, noting that despite having four or five different offensive coordinators over five years, Hurts has managed to win more than 11 games each season. He expressed frustration at the amount of criticism Hurts receives compared to other quarterbacks considered “elite” in the league, asserting that no one possesses greater “winnability.”
He’s a winner. I mean, come on now, you talk about a guy who, he’s had, what, four or five different coordinators in the last five years. And he’s still been able to win over 11 games in each of those seasons,
Dean declared.
So it’s like, what we’re talking about, he gets criticized so much, way more than the other quarterbacks who they call elite around the league. But I mean, nobody has any more winnability. Like, I don’t even know if that’s a word. But nobody got more winnability than Jalen Hurts.
Dean’s Uncertainty and Hope Regarding His Own Future
With his own NFL future undecided as a soon-to-be free agent, Dean openly expressed a desire to continue his career with the Eagles. Although he acknowledged the business nature of the league, he made his intentions clear and shared that both the team and fans are aware of his wish to remain in Philadelphia.
I know it’s a business, but I do hope to be back in Philadelphia,
Dean said.
I’m pretty sure the team knows that. The fans know that. If you don’t, and you know it now, I hope to be back in Philly.
Role and Potential Changes on the Eagles’ Defensive Lineup
Since being selected in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Dean has established himself as a critical leader on the Eagles’ defense. Questions remain about whether he will continue as the defense’s key figure in upcoming seasons or if new talent like Jihaad Campbell will assume a larger role in the future. Eagles fans are waiting to see how the team’s defense will evolve as the 2026 season approaches, and whether Dean will prepare for another Super Bowl contention alongside teammates like Zach Baun.
Public Affirmation of Commitment to Philadelphia
NFL insider Mike Garafolo highlighted Dean’s candid remarks during an appearance on “The Insiders,” underscoring Dean’s hope to renew his contract with the Eagles while addressing his free agency status publicly.
#Eagles LB Nakobe Dean joined us on The Insiders on @nflnetwork to talk about lot of topics, including his pending free agency:
“I do hope to be back in Philadelphia. I’m pretty sure the team knows that, the fans know that. If you don’t, you know it now.”
— Mike Garafolo, NFL Insider
Implications for the Eagles’ Future and Fan Expectations
Dean’s support of Hurts and his expressed wish to stay with the Eagles reflects the internal dynamics shaping Philadelphia’s roster decisions. His perspective underscores a belief in Hurts’ leadership despite external doubts, which may influence both team strategy and fan sentiment moving forward. As free agency approaches, how these factors play out will be closely watched, especially with several key defensive players and coaching staff shifts on the horizon.
#Eagles LB Nakobe Dean joined us on The Insiders on @nflnetwork to talk about lot of topics, including his pending free agency: “I do hope to be back in Philadelphia. I’m pretty sure the team knows that, the fans know that. If you don’t, you know it now.” pic.twitter.com/xtawdh13Qx
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 7, 2026
