Dean Wells Death and Obituary – Former NFL linebacker Dean Wells tragically passed away at the age of 54, as confirmed by the Carolina Panthers in a statement released on April 4, 2025. Wells died on April 3, 2025, after battling a courageous fight against Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) for nearly two years. His death has left the football community mourning the loss of not only a skilled athlete but also a person whose bravery and passion for cancer awareness left an indelible mark.
Dean Wells had been battling ALL since 2023. His health began to deteriorate suddenly, and doctors soon diagnosed him with the aggressive form of leukemia. In response to his diagnosis, Wells underwent a series of aggressive treatments, including chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, which he received in May 2024. Following his first round of chemotherapy, Wells went into remission, offering hope to him and his family. However, just before the 2023 football season, his leukemia returned with renewed severity, leading to a significant decline in his health during the final months of his life.
Throughout his battle with cancer, Wells remained determined to raise awareness about the disease. He used his platform to speak openly about his diagnosis, shedding light on the struggles cancer patients face. Wells became a strong advocate for cancer research, frequently donating money and blood to support the cause. His resolve to help others in their fight against cancer defined his final year, demonstrating his strength both as an athlete and as a person.
Dean Wells’ football career began in 1993 when he was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL Draft. Over the course of nine seasons, Wells established himself as a dependable linebacker. He played six seasons with the Seahawks before joining the Carolina Panthers for the final three years of his professional football career. Wells was known for his physicality, leadership, and resilience on the field, qualities that made him a valuable asset to both teams.
During his nine-year NFL career, Wells amassed impressive statistics, recording a total of 529 tackles, two and a half sacks, three interceptions, and six forced fumbles. He was a key defensive player for both the Seahawks and Panthers, known for his reliability and ability to read plays. His leadership and toughness made him a respected figure in the locker room, and his contributions to the team’s defense were often pivotal in crucial games.
Dean Wells leaves behind a lasting legacy, not only through his accomplishments on the football field but also through his efforts to raise awareness for cancer research. His determination to help others, coupled with his personal strength, continues to inspire those who knew him. Wells is survived by his wife, Lisa, and their two sons, who are left to honor his memory.
The Carolina Panthers, along with the broader NFL community, are mourning his death. Tributes have poured in from current and former players, coaches, and fans who remember Wells not just for his impressive statistics but also for his character and courage. Wells’ battle with leukemia and his efforts to help others in the fight against cancer have cemented his legacy as a figure of inspiration, both on and off the field.
In death, Dean Wells will be remembered as a man who exemplified toughness and heart, and whose legacy will continue to inspire those battling illness and those striving to make a difference in the world. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of fighting not just for yourself, but for the wellbeing of others, and his impact will not soon be forgotten.