PHILADELPHIA — The Eagles might rest linebacker Nakobe Dean for a few weeks to make sure he’s ready for the playoffs.
Dean suffered a hamstring injury on Saturday in the first quarter of the Eagles’ 29-18 win over the Washington Commanders and missed the remainder of the game. He was replaced by rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell, who recorded six tackles and one tackle for loss.
With Dean sidelined, Campbell could receive his first start in two months this Sunday against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York.
Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said Dean’s chances of playing against the Bills is “iffy.”
Fangio also mentioned that Dean’s injury is not a long-term issue and that he will return this season. Playing him against the Bills and Commanders in the final two weeks is an unnecessary risk.
Rushing Dean back could make his injury worse, complicating his status for the NFL playoffs in January. Having Dean available for those games is all that matters.
He has been one of the team’s best defensive players this season, amassing 55 tackles and four sacks. Since taking over as the starter last month, the Eagles have improved against run and with its blitzing.
Defensive tackle Jalen Carter and right tackle Lane Johnson could return to play against the Bills after missing three games and five games respectively.