As the 2025 offseason approaches, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are faced with a crucial decision regarding cornerback Jamel Dean.
Dean’s hefty $15.2 million cap hit, combined with lingering durability concerns, has created a dilemma for the team. Will they continue to rely on Dean as a key defensive contributor, or is it time to explore alternative options?
While Jamel Dean has showcased glimpses of exceptional talent, his recurring struggles with injuries have become an increasing liability for the Buccaneers. With a substantial $15.2 million cap hit looming for next season, Dean’s future in Tampa Bay hangs in the balance.
Via ESPN’s Jenna Laine,
“This is less about a change of scenery and more about Dean’s inability to stay healthy with a giant $15.2 million salary cap hit in 2025. Dean has been called a great teammate and a hard worker, and it’s rare to find a player with his length and speed. But he has missed 18 games in six seasons — missing nine in the past two years. Plus, he’s had one interception the past two years, which is an area where the team has been trying to improve. The Bucs’ defense is better when Dean is on the field, but he’s not contributing if he’s sidelined. The team already parted with CB Carlton Davis III last year, and that trade to Detroit served him well.”
Dean’s presence on the field undoubtedly elevates the Buccaneers’ defense, but his frequent injuries significantly diminish his impact. As Laine noted, the team has already demonstrated a willingness to make tough decisions regarding players with similar injury concerns, as seen in the trade of CB Carlton Davis to Detroit last year.
With the Buccaneers facing cap space management and roster challenges, Dean’s future in Tampa Bay is increasingly uncertain.
The Buccaneers have precedent for parting ways with talented cornerbacks when circumstances dictate it’s in the best interest of the team. As the 2025 season approaches, Tampa Bay must carefully weigh Dean’s on-field abilities against his injury history and substantial cap hit. They should be considering all options – including trade or roster adjustments – to make an informed decision.
The BR RubÂ
Yes, something needs to be done about Dean’s salary. Whether that’s a restructured contract, trade, ir outright release, something needs done. Dean has had some high-points to his career in Tampa. But he’s also had some very bad points as well. I think the team tries to work out a restructuring of his contract before deciding to move on from him. Adjust your mock drafts accordingly.
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