BREAKING: Former NFL Linebacker Dean Wells, Beloved Kentucky Wildcats Star and Record-Setting Sack Leader, Dies at 54 After a Two-Year Battle with Leukemia

Former NFL Linebacker and Kentucky Wildcats Legend Dean Wells Passes Away at 54 After Courageous Cancer Battle

April 4, 2025 – The football world is mourning the loss of Dean Wells, a former NFL linebacker and University of Kentucky standout, who passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the age of 54. Wells, who had been battling leukemia for two years, leaves behind a legacy of grit, determination, and passion for the game that inspired fans and teammates alike.

TMZ first reported the news on Friday evening, confirming that Wells succumbed to cancer after a valiant fight. A proud Louisville native, Wells’ journey from a high school star at Holy Cross to a record-setting Kentucky Wildcat and a nine-year NFL veteran is a testament to his talent and perseverance.

A Stellar College Career at Kentucky

Dean Wells made his mark on the gridiron at the University of Kentucky, where he played for the Wildcats from 1989 to 1992. A dominant force in the trenches, Wells set the program’s single-season sack record with 10 in 1992, a record that still stands today. That same year, he also recorded a school-record 5.0 sacks in a single game against Indiana, cementing his place in Kentucky football history. As a senior, Wells was named team captain, a role that reflected his leadership both on and off the field.

“Big Blue Nation lost one of its best,” wrote On3 in a tribute to Wells, echoing the sentiments of Kentucky fans who cherished his contributions to the program. A passionate Wildcats supporter even after his playing days, Wells remained deeply connected to the team, often expressing his dream of watching Kentucky play in person once he regained his health.

A Nine-Year NFL Career

After his stellar college career, Wells was selected in the fourth round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. He went on to play nine seasons in the NFL, suiting up for the Seahawks (1993–1997), the Carolina Panthers (1998–2000), and the New England Patriots (2001). Over the course of his professional career, Wells tallied more than 500 tackles, showcasing his tenacity and skill as a linebacker.

Though he never won a Super Bowl, Wells’ impact on the field was undeniable. His work ethic and physicality earned him respect from teammates and opponents alike, and his journey from a small high school in Louisville to the NFL inspired countless young athletes in Kentucky.

A Courageous Battle with Cancer

Wells was diagnosed with leukemia in the spring of 2023, a life-altering moment that shifted his focus from football to survival. Despite the challenges, he approached his cancer battle with the same determination that defined his playing career. In an article published by On3 in April 2024, Wells shared his optimism and resolve, emphasizing the importance of positivity in the face of adversity. “Battling enormous humans on the gridiron isn’t the same as battling cancer,” he said, reflecting on the unique challenges of his fight.

Throughout his treatment, Wells underwent a bone marrow transplant in May 2024, hoping it would bring him closer to remission. He documented his journey on CaringBridge.org, where he connected with supporters and shared updates on his health. Despite the side effects and setbacks, Wells remained focused on a personal goal: to be healthy enough to watch his beloved Kentucky Wildcats play against Texas in Austin during the 2025 season. “That’s my hope,” he told On3 in 2024. “I would love to be ready to go to Austin in the fall. If everything went smoothly… that’s my dream scenario: Watch the Cats upset Texas in Austin.”

Tragically, Wells’ health declined, and he was unable to fulfill that dream. He passed away just months before the game, leaving behind a community of fans and loved ones who admired his resilience.

A Lasting Legacy

Dean Wells’ impact extended far beyond the football field. After retiring from the NFL, he returned to his “Old Kentucky Home,” where he remained a devoted fan of the Wildcats and an active member of the Louisville community. Known for his humility and passion, Wells inspired those around him with his unwavering spirit, both during his playing days and throughout his cancer battle.

Tributes have poured in from across the football world, with former teammates, coaches, and fans sharing their memories of Wells. The University of Kentucky athletics department released a statement on Friday, saying, “Dean Wells was a true Wildcat warrior—a record-setting player, a leader, and a lifelong member of Big Blue Nation. We are heartbroken by his passing and extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Wells is survived by his family, though specific details about his loved ones have not been publicly shared. As the football community reflects on his life, one thing is clear: Dean Wells’ legacy as a player, a fighter, and a Kentucky icon will endure for years to come.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to leukemia research in Wells’ honor, a cause he championed during his battle. Fans are also encouraged to share their memories of Wells on social media using the hashtag #DeanWellsLegacy, ensuring that his story continues to inspire future generations.