D.J. Reed was one of the top free agents to land a new contract as the NFL’s free agency period kicked off on Monday. With teams allowed to negotiate deals during the legal tampering period, Reed quickly secured a three-year, $48 million contract with the Detroit Lions, which includes $32 million in guaranteed money.
Although Reed is excited about this next chapter in his career, he took time to reflect on his tenure with the New York Jets. In a heartfelt social media post, he expressed gratitude for his experiences with the team and the relationships he built along the way.
“MAN, I AM GRATEFUL TO HAVE EXPERIENCED BEING A NY JET! I WAS ABLE TO START MY FAMILY THERE & PLAY SOME GOOD FOOTBALL OVER THE LAST 3 YEARS. I WANT TO THANK THE JOHNSONS FOR CHANGING MY LIFE. I WANT TO THANK MY COACHES AS WELL AS MY TREATMENT PEOPLE. I WANT TO THANK MY TEAMMATES; YOU GUYS HAVE A BROTHER IN ME FOREVER. WE MADE LIGHT OUT OF TOUGH SITUATIONS & I WILL ALWAYS APPRECIATE THAT. I WANT TO THANK MY SUPPORTERS & I APPRECIATE YOU GUYS FOR THIS EXPERIENCE.”
Reed played a crucial role in the Jets’ defense last season, finishing with 64 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 11 pass breakups. His performance helped New York rank third in the league in passing yards allowed per game, earning him a solid 70.7 overall grade from Pro Football Focus.
His NFL career began with the San Francisco 49ers, where he primarily served as a backup before being waived and claimed by the Seattle Seahawks in 2020. In Seattle, he developed into a reliable starter, recording two interceptions in each of his two seasons. His strong play earned him a three-year, $33 million deal with the Jets in 2022.
During his three years in New York, Reed proved to be a steady presence in the secondary. He totaled 220 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 32 pass breakups, and two interceptions. While playing alongside standout cornerback Sauce Gardner, Reed established himself as one of the league’s most underrated defensive backs.
Now, he joins a Detroit Lions team with Super Bowl aspirations in 2025. He is expected to take over a key role on the outside, replacing Carlton Davis, who signed with the New England Patriots.
Reed will be part of a revamped secondary that features 2024 first-round pick Terrion Arnold, Amik Robertson, and second-round selection Ennis Rakestraw Jr. After allowing the second-most passing yards in the league last season, the Lions will rely on Reed’s experience and skill to help solidify their pass defense.
