The Detroit Lions have seen significant roster turnover this offseason, but they’ve done a fantastic job keeping key players like Derrick Barnes, Marcus Davenport, Levi Onwuzurike, and Tim Patrick.
The Lions also made a notable splash in free agency, signing CB D.J. Reed to a three-year, $48 million deal. During his introductory press conference on Thursday, Reed revealed that his decision came down to Detroit and Washington, but he ultimately chose the Lions because he believes in their Super Bowl potential.
Reed said, “I wanted to get paid. I wanted to play with dogs. I’m going to a great team and have a shot at that Lombardi.”
Reed, a Kansas State product, is set to fill the void left by Carlton Davis, who signed with the New England Patriots. As one of the top free-agent cornerbacks available, Reed brings reliability and experience to the Lions’ secondary.
Reed spent the last three seasons with the New York Jets, helping them finish with a top-four pass defense since 2022. In his 46 career games with the Jets, he recorded 220 total tackles, 32 pass deflections, seven tackles for loss, and two interceptions. From 2022 to 2024, he maintained a solid Pro Football Focus grade of at least 70 for overall and coverage performance.
Amik Robertson, another Lions cornerback, expressed his excitement about teaming up with Reed, eager to get on the field together.
The Lions finished 30th in the league in pass defense last season, allowing 244 yards per game. With Kelvin Sheppard now leading the defense as coordinator, he’ll have a new playmaker to work with in the secondary. Both the team and Reed are looking forward to a successful 2025 season.
