The Detroit Lions are determined to avoid repeating their playoff collapse, which was partly caused by injuries in their secondary, especially when Washington Commanders’ rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels torched them for 45 points in the NFC Divisional Round. To strengthen their defense, Detroit made a strategic move by signing cornerback D.J. Reed, formerly of the New York Jets, to a three-year, $48 million deal. Seth Walder of ESPN praised this as the best free-agent signing so far, not just because of Reed’s ability, but also because of the contract’s favorable value compared to other top cornerbacks. Reed has consistently performed well, allowing fewer than 1.1 yards per coverage snap for four straight seasons, as per NFL Next Gen Stats. Walder also noted that Reed was the top cornerback available in free agency, offering a significant upgrade over other options like Carlton Davis III. While the Patriots gave Davis a $20 million per year deal, the Lions secured Reed for $16 million, making it an excellent value for a crucial position. At 29 years old this November, Reed brings seven years of NFL experience to the Lions’ defense.
