The Steelers have agreed to terms with cornerback Jamel Dean on a three-year, $36.75 million contract, according to NFL Network.
Dean, 29, is coming off a season in which he recorded three interceptions and nine passes defensed. Before signing, he spent all seven of his NFL seasons with the Buccaneers, totaling 11 interceptions and 61 passes defensed. He was the top cornerback on the free agent market, ranking No. 5 on Pro Football Focus' free agent big board.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Dean allowed the fewest yards per target of any cornerback in coverage this season (4.7, minimim 50 targets). He also allowed the lowest passer rating (41.3) and the fewest target EPA (-30.1) among outside cornerbacks.
With now in the fold, and re-signing Asante Samuel Jr., the Steelers have shored up the cornerback position. One more big order of business, which might not get done for a while, is signing Joey Porter Jr. to an extension.
THE ASYLUM
Steelers to sign Dean to three-year deal
The Steelers have agreed to terms with cornerback Jamel Dean on a three-year, $36.75 million contract, according to NFL Network.
Dean, 29, is coming off a season in which he recorded three interceptions and nine passes defensed. Before signing, he spent all seven of his NFL seasons with the Buccaneers, totaling 11 interceptions and 61 passes defensed. He was the top cornerback on the free agent market, ranking No. 5 on Pro Football Focus' free agent big board.
According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Dean allowed the fewest yards per target of any cornerback in coverage this season (4.7, minimim 50 targets). He also allowed the lowest passer rating (41.3) and the fewest target EPA (-30.1) among outside cornerbacks.
With now in the fold, and re-signing Asante Samuel Jr., the Steelers have shored up the cornerback position. One more big order of business, which might not get done for a while, is signing Joey Porter Jr. to an extension.
Want to participate in our comments?
Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits!
We’d love to have you!