The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been dealing with an unreliable secondary for weeks. General manager Jason Licht took some steps to fix the problem, but the return of a starting corner could be the deciding factor.
On Monday, the Bucs designated cornerback Jamel Dean to return from injured reserve. The designation begins its 21-day practice window today and can be activated at any time during the 21-day period.
Dean has played in six games for the Bucs this year and has totaled 43 tackles and four pass breakups in those games.
The secondary has given up over 400 yards per game this year, including 264 passing yards. The combination of Tykee Smith and Zyon McCollum has flashed, but they need more. The return of Jamel Dean and the acquisition of Mike Edwards could be what this team needs.
At least the secondary will have an easier test after the bye week, facing either Tommy DeVito or Drew Lock after the Giants benched Daniel Jones.