Latest News: Just In Bucs’ superstar committed to picking off more passes

Dean dropped five interceptions last season

Jamel Dean and Carlton Davis were Auburn University teammates before becoming close friends with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

They played together in Tampa Bay for five seasons before Davis was dealt to the Detroit Lions this summer.

“It caught me off guard,” Dean said Tuesday, following the Bucs’ fourth OTA workout. “I was unaware of all that was going on until I received a phone call. I checked the news, and it indicated Carlton had been traded. I was like, “What?” Okay, fair enough. That’s random. They constantly claim it’s a business, so that’s acceptable.”

Dean understands that this is a competitive business that is all about winning. Dean, a defensive back, must produce major plays in order for his side to win.

He concluded last season with zero interceptions and far too many drops. This offseason, he is focusing on improving that aspect of his game.

“For the most part, it’s just the jugs machine, and even after the season is over, when I’m not even thinking about football, I get a text from the coach saying, ‘You need to be catching balls.'” ‘Okay, I understand.’ Last year, I dropped five interceptions. I apologize. I’m trying to improve on that. I catch 50 balls per day, and if I get the opportunity to catch with the quarterbacks, I will try. Even they treat me like the man who turns up to a party and then everyone departs.”

Dean has had issues with leaving games early or missing them due to injury. He missed four games last year and has never completed a full season in his career.

“He’s got to stay healthy number one,” stated head coach Todd Bowles. “That is the most significant factor. When he’s healthy and on the field, he’s a valuable asset to us. To progress from excellent to great, you must first be healthy. His message to campers is to focus on defense rather than offense. If he knows where his help is, he’ll have a great year.”

Bucs cornerbacks coach Kevin Ross believes Dean can be an all-pro player if he can pick off passes—all he has to do is catch the ball.