Jamel Dean: Everything you need to know

Dean (shoulder) agreed to a three-year, $36.75 million contract with the Steelers on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Dean has recovered from a shoulder injury that sidelined him down the stretch in 2025, so he shouldn't have trouble passing a physical to make his contract with Pittsburgh official when the new league year begins Wednesday. Prior to getting hurt, the 29-year-old cornerback set a new career high with three interceptions in 14 games during the 2025 season. He has 61 passes defensed in 96 regular-season games (77 starts), all with the Buccaneers.

Dean (shoulder) recorded 46 tackles (38 solo), including 1.0 sacks, nine defensed passes, including three interceptions (one pick-six), and two forced fumbles across 14 regular-season games in 2025. Dean put together a career-high INT total in his contract year, holding down the starting job at left cornerback whenever he was healthy. The veteran defensive back has always had a good knack for getting his hands on the ball, and the fact he's still only 29 years old and plays a key position should garner plenty of interest on the open market if he and the Buccaneers don't come to an agreement for him to remain in Tampa Bay.

Dean (shoulder) has been ruled out ahead of Saturday's matchup against the Panthers, Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site reports. The 29-year-old corner didn't practice all week and is now in line to miss his third game of the season Saturday. Dean is a crucial part of the Buccaneers' secondary, recording 46 total tackles, nine passes defensed, including three interceptions, and two forced fumbles across 14 appearances this season. Expect Benjamin Morrison, Josh Hayes and Kindle Vildor to operate as Tampa Bay's top boundary cornerbacks while Dean is sidelined in Week 18, a matchup the Buccaneers must win to keep their playoff hopes alive.