Steelers-Bound Jamel Dean Opens Up About Buccaneers, Todd Bowles

Mike Evans’ departure to the San Francisco 49ers positions Baker Mayfield as the undisputed face of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2026. We’ve all seen how Mayfield plays under pressure, and Evans’ exit has just handed him a monumental task. Yet, Evans isn’t the sole high-profile Buccaneer to leave this spring. Other key players have also departed in free agency, collectively building a mountain-sized challenge that could fuel Mayfield.

Evans’ departure from the Buccaneers significantly weakens the team’s offense, particularly for Mayfield, and has disheartened the fanbase. His comments, indicating a higher potential for success with the 49ers and preferring their home atmosphere over Tampa Bay’s, have further impacted fan sentiment.

Jamel Dean echoed this sentiment. According to Alan Saunders, a Pittsburgh Steelers beat writer, Dean opted to sign with the Steelers over remaining in Tampa Bay, citing Pittsburgh’s “winning culture” and stating, “All we do is win here. I’m at the point of my career where I’m trying to chase another Super Bowl.”

Dean’s move from the Buccaneers to the Steelers represents, at best, a lateral career step. Furthermore, the competitive landscape of the AFC North is poised to intensify in 2026, with a healthy Lamar Jackson expected to elevate the Baltimore Ravens, and a healthier Joe Burrow likely to bolster the Cincinnati Bengals’ threat.

The Steelers’ roster appears to be declining, with their key breakout player, Kenny Gainwell, having already joined the Buccaneers. While Evans, Dean, Hall, and others may criticize the Buccaneers, their own career trajectories seem to be heading downwards, whereas players like Mayfield and Gainwell are positioned for significant improvement in 2026.