Overview

• CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz reported Dean is set to play Thursday night against New York, marking his first appearance of 2025.
• Dean was on reserve/PUP in August, missed the first five games, and returned to practice last week before this anticipated activation.
• Reports indicate his workload will start limited and build over time, aligning with Vic Fangio’s comments that his initial role would not be full-time.
• The 2022 third-round pick is coming off a 2024 breakout with 128 tackles, three sacks, and his first interception before a postseason-ending knee injury.
• He suffered a torn patellar tendon in the wild-card win over the Packers, and his return now bolsters depth as Campbell produces and Baun holds an every-down role.