Space Coast in the NFL: A Bruising Week 17 for Brevard’s Finest
If you were hoping for a victory lap for our local products in Week 17, the NFL had other plans. It was a physical and unforgiving slate of games for the Brevard County fraternity, with injuries and tough losses defining the holiday weekend.
As we look toward the regular-season finale next week, here is how the Space Coast’s alumni fared in Week 17.
Jamel Dean (Cocoa High) – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Result: Dolphins 20, Buccaneers 17
It was a painful Sunday in more ways than one for Jamel Dean. The former Tiger started at cornerback against Miami but was forced to exit the game in the third quarter with a shoulder injury. Before leaving, Dean had a mixed outing; he recorded a pass breakup but also surrendered a 63-yard touchdown to Theo Wease.
His status is now the biggest storyline for Brevard fans heading into Week 18. With the Bucs fighting for playoff positioning, losing a starter of Dean's caliber is a massive blow. We are waiting on further medical updates, but seeing him ruled "questionable to return" so quickly on Sunday was not an encouraging sign.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson (Cocoa High) – Chicago Bears
Result: 49ers 35, Bears 28 (OT/Late)
"Ceedy Duce" and the Bears were part of the week’s marquee matchup on Sunday Night Football, but they couldn’t close the deal against San Francisco. Gardner-Johnson was active and flying around the secondary, continuing what has been a statistically solid 2025 campaign (60 tackles, 2 INTs on the season). However, the Bears' defense struggled to contain the 49ers' attack late in the game. It’s a frustrating loss for a Chicago team that has shown flashes of brilliance this year.
Jawaan Taylor (Cocoa High) – Kansas City Chiefs
Result: Broncos 20, Chiefs 13
The holiday brought no cheer for Jawaan Taylor and the Chiefs, who fell to rival Denver on Christmas Day. Taylor started at Right Tackle, a spot he has held down all season. While the Chiefs' offensive line has generally been a fortress, the unit struggled to generate rhythm against a stingy Broncos front. It was a rare home loss for Kansas City, and Taylor will be looking to help the offense bounce back in the season finale to secure momentum for the playoffs.
Jashaun Corbin (Rockledge / Holy Trinity) – New England Patriots
Status Update: Released
We have some breaking news on the transaction wire today (Tuesday, Dec. 30). Reports indicate that running back Jashaun Corbin has been released from the New England Patriots practice squad. It’s a tough break for the Rockledge and Holy Trinity alum who led the UFL in rushing earlier this year. Given his production when given the chance, don't expect him to stay a free agent for long—he’s proven he has NFL-caliber talent.
Marcus Maye (Holy Trinity) – Los Angeles Chargers
Status: Practice Squad
The veteran safety remains on the Chargers' practice squad after re-signing with the team in mid-December. He did not see action in Week 17.
The Verdict
Week 17 was a reminder of the league's attrition. Our eyes are now fixed on the injury report for Jamel Dean. We’ll be tracking his progress all week here at Queen Media as we prepare for the final week of the regular season.
Catch more updates on the next episode of the Space Coast Sports Podcast.
