Teams around the NFL have started or are gearing up to start the next phase of offseason training, Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Prior to the start of OTAs, teams had their rookie minicamps. Rookie minicamp provides an opportunity for rookies, both drafted and undrafted, as well as players who have minimal experience in the NFL or have been on practice squads, to try out to make the roster.
Former Kansas City Chiefs safety Trey Dean, who spent time on the team's practice squad during their 2024 playoff run, received an invite to the Cleveland Browns rookie minicamp. Unfortunately, he didn't show enough to make the 90-man preseason roster and was cut.
That said, it seems that the 25-year-old defensive back was given one more lifeline to keep his career going. According to the UFL Newsroom on X, the DC Defenders signed the former Chief on Thursday. Dean will be given an immediate chance to make an impact for the Defenders.
DC Defenders Sign Former Chiefs Safety Trey Dean
Currently, the Defenders are tied for the best record in the UFL at 6-2. Despite this, DC released safety Josh Proctor and signed Dean. Although Dean has never played a snap in the NFL, he has more experience within NFL organizations than Proctor does.
Dean has spent time on the practice squads of the Chiefs and the New York Jets. Whereas Proctor was part of the Jacksonville Jaguars' final roster cuts in 2024 and failed to make any team's practice squad. Still, Proctor landed a job before Dewan did with the Defenders.
Dean must bring the playmaking ability he showed in college to DC. During his five years of college at the University of Florida, he recorded 259 tackles, 15 TFLs, five sacks, four interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble.
If he can replicate that form, Dean could provide a significant boost to the Defenders in their quest for the UFL Championship. And if that goes well, a strong finish to the season might even earn him another chance on an NFL practice squad in 2025.