The New York Jets face a lot of questions on their roster as the NFL heads towards open free agency in March. One of these question marks is starting cornerback D.J. Reed. Reed has spent his last three seasons with the Jets. Could a change of scenery be underway for the 28-year-old defender?
D.J. Reed is an unrestricted free agent this offseason and arguably the best defensive back set to reach the open market. Reed is a cornerback in his prime and should have several suitors that need secondary help.
D.J. Reed Potential Landing Spots
San Francisco 49ers
D.J. Reed was originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers and spent the first two years of his career with the franchise. Reed is very familiar with recent-hired defensive coordinator Robert Saleh. Saleh was the 49ers defensive coordinator in Reed’s first two years with San Francisco, and he was also the Jets head coach for two and a half of the three seasons that Reed played for New York. This familiarity could attract Reed to San Francisco as he is comfortable with Saleh’s defensive scheme. Reed has had some of the best years of his career with Saleh on his coaching staff.
Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings have some question marks in their secondary. Minnesota gave up the 5th most passing yards per game last season, and members of their own secondary face questions this offseason. Harrison Smith is contemplating retirement while numerous other members of the secondary are entering free agency including Cam Bynum, Stephon Gilmore, and Byron Murphy Jr.
D.J. Reed could be a great replacement for the Vikings if one or more of these players part ways with Minnesota. Brian Flores is back as defensive coordinator since he was not hired as a head coach elsewhere. Flores is an extremely well respected coordinator in the league, and his presence could help entice Reed to come to Minnesota. The Vikings have the seventh most cap space in the league which gives them plenty of cap space to sign D.J. Reed.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are very frequently listed as a destination for defenders. This is because Detroit had the NFL’s top offense last season but was frequently let down by their defense. Although the team dealt with numerous injuries, it was evident the franchise needs to bring in some help on defense. With the Lions losing 45-31 in the playoffs and the team having the tenth most cap space available, D.J. Reed could be a great addition to their secondary. The Lions gave up the third most passing yards per game last season. This is where Reed comes into play, a proven corner in his prime that can boost a struggling defense.
All three of these teams have eyes on a Super Bowl title, could use help in the secondary, and have enough cap space to sign D.J. Reed.
Main Photo: Tina MacIntyre – Imagn Images
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