Falcons Vs. Eagles: Akeem Dent impresses with increased playing time

Atlanta Falcons linebacker Akeem Dent played every defensive snap in a Week 6 victory over the Oakland Raiders. It was the most Dent had played in any game since being drafted in 2011. He responded with eight tackles total, including six solo. His performance impressed his teammates.

"That was my first time really getting to play with him a lot," fellow linebacker Sean Weatherspoon told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "It was fun. I look forward to seeing him continue to have a bigger role in our defense."

Dent's increased playing time resulted from an ankle injury to Stephen Nicolas. It's believed that Nicolas will resume his normal spot this Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles, so Dent may see his participation decrease again. One difference between the two players is that the Falcons don't yet feel comfortable playing Dent full-time in nickel packages. Still, his performance against Oakland didn't go unnoticed and likely bodes well for the future.

"He’s got that fire, run-to-the-ball type of game," veteran linebacker Mike Peterson said. "Young guy, fresh legs. Always eager to learn, eager to make plays, which is a good thing."