An incredible linebacker best known for his time with the Seattle Seahawks has passed away after struggling with cancer for two years. The Carolina Panthers, one of his former teams, confirmed his death on Thursday.
Wells was diagnosed with leukemia in 2023, and according to On3.com, he underwent a bone marrow transplant in May 2024 as part of his treatment.
Despite a valiant fight, he ultimately succumbed to the illness at the age of 54 following a two-year battle with cancer.
Born in Louisville, Kentucky,
Dean Wells
Played his college football at the University of Kentucky, where he etched his name into school history by recording five sacks in a single game against Indiana in 1992—a record that still stands today. He was selected by the Seahawks in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL Draft and arrived in Seattle during a period of significant change and uncertainty for the franchise.
Wells’ early years with the Seahawks were spent primarily as a reserve and special teams contributor, but he steadily worked his way up the depth chart. In his second season, he moved from outside linebacker to the middle and soon became a reliable starter, cementing his role in 1995 under new head coach Dennis Erickson. From 1995 to 1998, Wells started 49 games, highlighted by leading the team in tackles in 1996 with 107, and recording another 92 tackles the following year. His 255 solo tackles as a Seahawk rank tied for 30th in team history, per Pro Football Reference.
Wells became known for his toughness and consistency during a turbulent time in Seahawks history. The franchise was nearly relocated to Los Angeles by then-owner Ken Behring before Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen stepped in to purchase the team in 1997, ensuring it remained in Seattle. Through it all, Wells served as a stabilizing force on the defensive side of the ball.
One of the more lighthearted stories from his draft year came when Wells, just ten days before being selected, placed a winning bet at the Keeneland racetrack in Lexington on a horse named Seattle Bound, netting $70. He took it as a sign of what was to come.
After his tenure in Seattle, Wells signed with the Carolina Panthers in 1999 and spent three seasons with the team. He later joined the New England Patriots in 2002, though he retired before ever appearing in a game for them.
Following his NFL career, Wells returned to his home state of Kentucky. According to On3.com, he focused on life with his family and was remembered as a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, and their two sons.
Dean Wells’ legacy lives on not only through his contributions on the field but also through his resilience and dedication off of it. He will be remembered fondly by fans of the Seahawks, Panthers, and all who knew him.
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