This Eagles Linebacker Points to His Military Upbringing for His ‘Discipline’

Published: November 18, 2025

By Mallory Mattingly

For Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean, honoring service men and women during the NFL’s “Salute to Service” program last week was personal.

“My mother and my father met in the military. I grew up with the discipline to do the right things,” the athlete told the NFL.

Now, Dean uses his platform to give back to those who also have ties to the military.

“My giving back to the community stems from my mother and her ties to the military,” he explained. “It came through all the work she did in the community when I was younger. Now that I’m grown, I can lead the way.”

Dean concluded his comments to the NFL, describing why the league’s “Salute to Service” program is important to him.

“Salute to Service is important to me because my mother and father were in the military, but also because I want to give thanks and gratitude to those in the military who are willing to protect and serve this country,” Dean emphasized.

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In 2023, Dean’s mother, Neketta, expressed how her son’s community involvement fills her with gratitude.

“To see the impact that service had on them and the veterans was awesome,” she told the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023. “Acts of kindness can go a long way for some people, so I am honored to see that Nakobe can volunteer and give back to the community.”

That same year, Dean and his mom partnered with Operation Homefront and United Through Reading, visiting Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in Burlington County, New Jersey, to spend time with military families. The mother and son duo met with the families and handed out books and stickers to the children.

“It means a lot to give back to the veterans,” Dean expressed. “The job they do for this country is second to none. I am appreciative of them and thankful for that. With a mother and father who were both in the Army, I have a greater appreciation for what these servicemen and women do.”

“As a service member myself, I was elated to participate in this event,” Neketta added. “These are the men and women who protect our country. It was truly an honor.”

The linebacker gives back in other ways, too. A few months ago, he hosted a back-to-school resource fair in association with the Kind Hearts 4 Lyfe organization.

“This past weekend, we were able to provide over 1,000 backpacks filled with supplies, along with free haircuts, fresh produce, and health & wellness resources to support students and their families as they head into a new school year!” the organization wrote in a post on social media.