Marlowe's Professional NFL Career and Athletic Profile

Marlowe's Professional NFL Career and Athletic Profile

Navigating the competitive landscape of the National Football League requires a combination of raw physical talent and resilience. Marlowe entered the league as an undrafted free agent, carving out a professional journey characterized by multiple stints with the Buffalo Bills and contributions across several high-profile franchises.

Key Facts

  • NFL Entry: Signed as an undrafted free agent with the Carolina Panthers in 2015.
  • Career Highlight: Recorded two interceptions in a single game against the Miami Dolphins in Week 17 of the 2020 season.
  • Versatility: Has played for five different NFL organizations: Panthers, Bills, Lions, Falcons, and Chargers.
  • Physical Profile: Measured 6 ft 1.5 in and 203 lb at the NFL Combine.

Athletic Foundation: NFL Combine Results

Before entering professional play, Marlowe's physical capabilities were documented at the NFL Combine, the standardized test used by league scouts to evaluate prospects. His profile showed a balanced mix of speed and explosive power, particularly in his vertical and broad jumps.

Marlowe's NFL Combine Performance Metrics
Metric Measurement Metric Measurement
Height 6 ft 1.5 in (1.87 m) 40-Yard Dash 4.58 s
Weight 203 lb (92 kg) Vertical Jump 33.5 in (0.85 m)
Wingspan 6 ft 2.125 in (1.88 m) Broad Jump 9 ft 6 in (2.90 m)
Arm Length 31 in (0.79 m) Bench Press 16 reps
Hand Span 8.75 in (0.22 m) Three-Cone Drill 7.00 s

Early Career and the Carolina Panthers

Marlowe's professional journey began in 2015 when he signed with the Carolina Panthers. He successfully made the 53-man roster on September 5, 2015. While he was part of the team during their run to Super Bowl 50 on February 7, 2016, he remained inactive for the game, which the Panthers lost to the Denver Broncos 24–10.

His tenure in Carolina was hampered by injuries. He was placed on injured reserve due to a hamstring injury on September 20, 2016, and was eventually waived/injured on August 8, 2017, before being released on August 15, 2017.

The Buffalo Bills Eras

Marlowe's relationship with the Buffalo Bills spanned several years and multiple contracts. He first joined the Bills' practice squad on December 5, 2017, and signed a reserve/future contract on January 8, 2018. His early time in Buffalo involved frequent movement between the practice squad and the active roster throughout 2018.

Marlowe with the Buffalo Bills in 2018
Marlowe with the Buffalo Bills in 2018

After re-signing in March 2020, Marlowe experienced a breakout period. In Week 8 of the 2020 season, he secured a 24–21 victory over the New England Patriots by recovering a fumble forced by Justin Zimmer on Cam Newton. He later recorded his first career sack against Newton during a Week 16 win. He capped off the 2020 season in Week 17 by intercepting two passes from Tua Tagovailoa in a 56–26 win over the Miami Dolphins.

Following a stint with other teams, Marlowe returned to Buffalo via a trade from the Atlanta Falcons on November 1, 2022, in exchange for a 2023 7th-round draft pick. He re-signed in May 2023 but was released on August 29.

Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons

On April 8, 2021, Marlowe transitioned to the Detroit Lions. This period marked a significant increase in playing time, as he appeared in 16 games with nine starts, contributing 67 tackles and two passes defensed.

He later signed a one-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on March 31, 2022, before his eventual trade back to the Buffalo Bills later that year.

Recent Activity: Los Angeles Chargers

Most recently, Marlowe joined the Los Angeles Chargers, signing with their practice squad on August 31, 2023. He was promoted to the active roster on September 30, 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which team did Marlowe first sign with in the NFL?

Marlowe first signed with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent following the 2015 NFL draft.

What were Marlowe's most notable achievements with the Buffalo Bills?

His highlights include recovering a game-securing fumble in Week 8 of 2020, recording his first career sack in Week 16, and intercepting two passes in Week 17 of the 2020 season.

How many games did Marlowe start with the Detroit Lions?

Marlowe started nine games during his tenure with the Detroit Lions, appearing in 16 games total.

What was the trade agreement that brought Marlowe back to the Bills in 2022?

The Atlanta Falcons traded Marlowe to the Buffalo Bills on November 1, 2022, in exchange for a 2023 7th-round draft pick.

What is Marlowe's current team status as of late 2023?

Marlowe signed with the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad on August 31, 2023, and was promoted to the active roster on September 30, 2023.

References

  1. Wright, Scott (January 15, 2025). "Oklahoma State football announces finalized coaching staff: See the full list". The Oklahoman. Retrieved August 15, 2025.
  2. "Dean Marlowe". jmusports.com. Archived from the original on March 28, 2016. Retrieved March 28, 2016.
  3. "Dean Marlowe Draft and Combine Prospect Profile". NFL.com. Retrieved May 10, 2020.
  4. "2015 NFL Draft Scout Dean Marlowe College Football Profile". DraftScout.com. Retrieved December 2, 2023.
  5. "Safety Dean Marlowe hopes to be a hit with Carolina Panthers". Charlotte Observer. May 10, 2015.