The Detroit Lions lost cornerback Carlton Davis to the New England Patriots during NFL free agency and filled the gap left by the former Auburn star by signing D.J. Reed.
In 2024, Davis acted as an experienced presence alongside rookie cornerback Terrion Arnold on the field. Reed is eager to take on that position in the former Alabama star’s second NFL season.
Reed mentioned that he believed the 2024 first-round draft selection possessed the qualities needed to become an elite cornerback in the NFL.
“I believed Terrion performed admirably,” Reed remarked at his introductory press conference in Detroit. “Clearly, he was touchy, and that’s an issue that can be addressed.” That is completely reparable. Regarding talent and stickiness, that’s why he was selected in the first round; I believe he will perform exceptionally well. “I believe he’s the kind of player who is Pro Bowl and All-Pro caliber.”
Arnold was acquired by Detroit from Alabama as the 24th pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite missing one game, Arnold was one of five rookies who participated in at least 900 defensive snaps during the 2024 regular season, and he took part in all 75 during the Lions’ 45-31 defeat against the Washington Commanders in the NFC playoffs’ second round on Jan. 18.
In the initial four matches of the season, Arnold received penalties for defensive pass interference five times, defensive holding two times, and a face mask once. In the last 13 games he played, Arnold received three penalties.
Following seven seasons in the NFL, Reed inked a three-year deal worth $48 million with the Lions. He became a starter in the NFL midway through his third season. In the last four seasons, Reed stands out as the sole cornerback in the NFL boasting over 280 tackles and a minimum of 40 passes defended.
“I possess determination,” Reed stated. “I’m a persistent player.” I aim to excel and succeed in every repetition. I’m an eager tackler in addition to being a corner, which, as you know, most corners prefer to avoid. Most corners aim to cover. I enjoy putting myself out there when necessary, and I also wish to ensure safety, so I believe I am a good match. Additionally, serving as a mentor, being an older individual to assist younger individuals like TA. I am eager to meet him, (cornerback) Amik (Robertson) and all the others. I’m truly excited about playing alongside the safety duo. I was really excited about the fact that I’ll be teaming up with two All-Pro safeties, which I believe will elevate my game and enhance the entire defense overall.
During his first season, Arnold primarily positioned himself on the right side of the field. That’s what Reed also accomplished with the Jets. However, the experienced corner believes that adapting won’t be an issue for either player.
“During my time in Seattle, that was simply the position I played, and it sort of remained there,” Reed stated. “Just like when I played for the Jets.” Sauce (Gardner) occupied the left; I took the right. On third down, at times Sauce will head to the boundary, while at other times I will go to the field. For certain games, I would go on trips, such as when we played in Miami, and for some of those games, I would travel alongside Tyreek (Hill). In other games we played, such as against larger receivers, Sauce would follow. It’s somewhat similar to how our coaches were implementing.
“I’m a football player, so whether they need me to play on the left side or the right side, I’m comfortable doing either.”