The Detroit Lions are making bold moves on the defensive side, securing cornerback D.J. Reed with a three-year, $48 million contract.
Reed was one of the top cornerbacks and free agents available, and now he’s joining the Lions. This acquisition could be crucial in helping the team strengthen its defense and avoid the significant losses they faced in 2024.
Reed was pursued by several teams but chose to join an immediate contender in Detroit. The Lions managed to make the playoffs despite a large number of injuries, and now they’re taking steps to avoid another injury-plagued season in 2025 by building a solid defensive unit. Signing Reed is a big part of that strategy.
In the 2024 season, Reed finished with 64 tackles and 11 passes defended. While he didn’t record any interceptions, he was still one of the top cornerbacks that year.
Reed allowed only a 57.1% completion rate and a 87.1 passer rating from opposing quarterbacks. Though he gave up two touchdowns, this doesn’t reflect poorly on his ability to cover receivers.
The Lions secured a major asset in Reed, who will help solidify their secondary alongside Terrion Arnold.
Despite their loss in the Divisional Round of the playoffs, Detroit is still favored to make a deep run in 2025. Strengthening their defense, starting with the addition of Reed, is a major step in the right direction.