"E-A-G-L-E-S Eagles" shouted 150 members of the Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster as injured Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean entered the clubhouse.
In an encounter organized by Kegel's Produce, which hosted Dean during the day, club members were able to ask questions, receive an autographed photo and have their photo taken with the NFL athlete.
Dean, from Horn Lake, Mississippi, told the youngsters he grew up with a Boys and Girls Club. "When I see you, I see myself."
Asked why he became a linebacker, he said "When I was your age, I liked doing more tackling than being tackled."
In answer to questions, he said it was his dream since he was young to play in the NFL and when he got there it was a "dream come true to play the game I love. It felt awesome." He said he expects to be back in training in the spring after his foot surgery.
Other answers to the youths' questions:
Favorite baseball team: After much hesitation, "Phillies."
Favorite superhero: Again, after hesitation, "The Hulk."
Favorite sports drink: No hesitation, "Water."
A few members of the Hall of Fame board attended to briefly assist with the event.
In top photo, Nakobe Dean signs a mini Eagles helmet for Hall of Fame chairman Jack Neal. Below, Nakobe Dean and board members, from left, Jack Neal, Bill Bert, Kenny Myers and Ed Flick.
January 2, 2024
