Breaking: Three veteran Eagles Starters to leave club After OTAs
As the Philadelphia Eagles wrap up their Organized Team Activities (OTAs), several veteran starters find themselves in precarious positions. The team’s recent draft picks and free-agent acquisitions have intensified competition, particularly for linebacker Nakobe Dean and safeties Sydney Brown and Tristin McCollum.
Nakobe Dean: Injury Woes and Rising Competition
Linebacker Nakobe Dean, once a promising starter, has faced a series of injuries that have hindered his progress. In 2023, he suffered a foot injury, and in the 2024 Wild Card game against the Green Bay Packers, he tore his patellar tendon, sidelining him for the remainder of the playoffs and potentially affecting his availability for the upcoming season.
During Dean’s absence, veteran linebacker Oren Burks stepped in and delivered commendable performances, including a forced fumble in the NFC Championship game. Additionally, the Eagles drafted linebacker Jihaad Campbell from Alabama, who is expected to be heavily involved in the rotation.
Dean’s injury history and the emergence of Burks and Campbell have created a competitive environment. While Dean’s talent is undeniable, his ability to reclaim and retain his starting position will depend on his recovery and performance during training camp
Sydney Brown and Tristin McCollum: Safety Positions Under Scrutiny
Safeties Sydney Brown and Tristin McCollum are also facing challenges to their starting roles. The Eagles’ selection of Andrew Mukuba from Texas in the draft has intensified competition in the secondary. Mukuba, a third-team All-SEC selection with five interceptions last season, brings versatility and aggressive play to the position. ([Inside the Iggles][1], [Fan Recap][4], [Soy Futbol][3])
While Brown has more on-field experience, Mukuba’s potential could significantly reduce snaps for both Brown and McCollum. The coaching staff will closely evaluate performances during training camp to determine the optimal safety pairings for the upcoming season.([Soy Futbol][3])
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### **Looking Ahead**
The Eagles’ depth and talent across the roster have created a highly competitive atmosphere. For veterans like Dean, Brown, and McCollum, the path to retaining starting positions will require demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and superior performance during training camp and preseason games.
As the team prepares for the 2025 season, these positional battles will be critical in shaping the Eagles’ defensive identity and overall success.
