Top 4 Free Agent Destinations for Bucs CB Jamel Dean

Cornerback Jamel Dean is set to be one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Jamel Dean is poised to be a highly coveted free agent this offseason. The 29-year-old defensive back is coming off a strong 2025 season where he recorded 3 interceptions and an impressive 87.1 PFSN CB Impact Score. Several contending teams are expected to pursue Dean, including the Green Bay Packers, New England Patriots, Arizona Cardinals, and San Francisco 49ers.

Why it matters

Jamel Dean is considered one of the top free agent cornerbacks available, and his signing could significantly impact the defensive secondary of whichever team lands him. As teams look to bolster their pass defenses to compete with elite quarterbacks in the NFL, Dean's coverage skills and ball-hawking ability make him an attractive target.

The details

Dean, who will turn 30 during the 2026 season, is likely entering the prime of his career. The Packers, Patriots, Cardinals, and 49ers are all seen as potential landing spots for the cornerback. Green Bay needs to upgrade its cornerback group after struggling there in 2025, while the Patriots, Cardinals, and 49ers could use Dean's services to solidify their secondaries and defend against top passing offenses in their respective divisions.

  • Jamel Dean is set to become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins in March 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL free agency period is scheduled to open on March 18, 2026.

The players

Jamel Dean

A 29-year-old cornerback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who is set to become a free agent in 2026.

Brian Gutekunst

The general manager of the Green Bay Packers.

Christian Gonzalez

A top cornerback for the New England Patriots.

Will Johnson

A rookie cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals in 2025.

Budda Baker

A safety for the Arizona Cardinals who patrols the last line of defense.

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What’s next

The NFL free agency period will officially open on March 18, 2026, at which point teams will be able to begin negotiating with and signing free agents like Jamel Dean.

The takeaway

Jamel Dean's impending free agency has generated significant interest around the league, as teams look to bolster their secondary units and defend against the pass-heavy offenses that have become prevalent in the modern NFL. The Packers, Patriots, Cardinals, and 49ers are all seen as potential landing spots for the talented cornerback, who could make an immediate impact on whichever team is able to sign him.