Seven-year veteran cornerback D.J. Reed was a rare bright spot on the 2024 New York Jets, but as an impending free agent, he may explore new opportunities in the months ahead. Selected in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Reed has risen above modest expectations to become one of the league’s more dependable cornerbacks. While he has yet to earn a Pro Bowl nod, Reed has proven himself as a solid CB2 since joining the Jets in 2022. Entering the season with Super Bowl aspirations, he and Sauce Gardner were expected to anchor a secondary supporting a revitalized Aaron Rodgers.
Unfortunately, the Jets’ season fell apart, with the defense faltering in the absence of former head coach Robert Saleh. Depending on the Jets’ next head coaching hire, the team could choose to move on from Rodgers, embrace a rebuild, and see no place for a 28-year-old cornerback nearing the latter stages of his career. If that happens, Reed is unlikely to remain unemployed for long, with teams like the Carolina Panthers or Baltimore Ravens potentially vying for his services.
Panthers, Ravens Could Sign D.J. Reed If He Leaves the Jets
While the Panthers aren’t immediate Super Bowl contenders, they could make waves in 2025. Bryce Young, the first overall pick in 2023, showed significant promise late in the season and appears poised for a breakout year. With a strong offensive line, promising weapons, and head coach Dave Canales returning, the offense is in good hands. Now, Carolina must address their struggling defense.
Ranked near the bottom of most defensive metrics last season, the Panthers are in dire need of reinforcements. Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn will return for at least one more year, but additional help is essential. D.J. Reed’s reliability with the Jets makes him an ideal addition. Pairing him with Horn and potentially Mike Jackson would give Carolina a formidable trio of cornerbacks. Adding an edge rusher to bolster the pass rush could provide the Panthers with the defensive edge needed to dominate a weak NFC South.
More Help in Baltimore
The Baltimore Ravens have one of the strongest rosters in sports, but they are unable to advance in the playoffs. For whatever reason, John Harbaugh’s team consistently shoots itself in the foot once the postseason arrives, and last week’s season-ending loss to the Buffalo Bills was no exception. While it is too late to rectify the previous season, Baltimore has more time to strengthen the roster and address any shortcomings for the upcoming season.
Baltimore’s secondary started sluggish but improved late in the season. Marlon Humphrey remains a dependable veteran, while first-round pick Nate Wiggins closed the season on a good note. However, the team is unlikely to re-sign cornerback Tre’Davious White, leaving room for another boundary cornerback. D.J. Reed is the superior player at this stage in his career, and the Ravens should be intrigued by what the Jets defensive back can add to this secondary. When Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Patrick Mahomes stand between you and a Super Bowl berth, you need as many good cornerbacks as possible.
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