Nakobe Dean and Jihaad Campbell are unlikely to participate in the Philadelphia Eagles’ July minicamp, leaving the Super Bowl champs notably short-handed at linebacker.
As spring practices wrap up, the Eagles are dealing with several injury setbacks that could affect roster depth heading into the summer. The linebacker position is particularly thin, while other areas show more encouraging signs of recovery.
LB Nakobe Dean (torn patellar tendon):
Dean is still on the mend from a torn patellar tendon suffered during the wild-card win over Green Bay. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio offered a candid update, noting that Dean “won’t be back anytime soon” and likely won’t return for minicamp. The third-year linebacker, who was enjoying a breakout season before the injury, has incorporated ballet into his rehab to improve flexibility. Although he ditched crutches just weeks after surgery, recovery from this type of injury typically takes 8–12 months. With his procedure in January, the earliest realistic return is training camp in late July.
LB Jihaad Campbell (shoulder surgery):
Campbell, the Eagles’ top pick in the draft, is officially ruled out for July minicamp following March surgery on a torn labrum. Fangio confirmed the rookie won’t practice until at least August. While Campbell remains engaged in meetings and walkthroughs, concerns about his long-term durability persist, including possible future surgery on his other shoulder and potential knee issues. Still, the Eagles are confident in his future potential.
C Cam Jurgens (back):
Jurgens offers a much brighter outlook. The newly extended center, who played through back pain during the postseason, underwent a procedure to address nerve issues and is expected to be a full participant in both minicamp and training camp. The team remains confident in his recovery and long-term value.
EDGE Nolan Smith (triceps):
Smith, who injured his triceps in Super Bowl LIX, has been progressing steadily. He’s been limited during OTAs but is tracking to be cleared in time for July minicamp, if not earlier.
FB Ben VanSumeren (knee):
VanSumeren returned to action on June 4 after missing early OTAs and has indicated he’ll be ready for both minicamp and training camp.
Despite positive developments elsewhere, linebacker depth remains a concern. With Dean and Campbell unavailable, Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has been running with the first team alongside Zack Baun throughout OTAs. While this offers younger players a chance to earn reps, it underscores the vulnerability at a key position.
The Eagles are the only NFL team holding just one mandatory minicamp practice this year—perhaps a nod to their recent Super Bowl success. With such limited practice time, the health of key players becomes even more critical as they gear up for another championship push. Training camp in late July will serve as the next big test for injured players aiming to return to action.