Big Lions Signing Nearly Rejected Detroit for Top NFC Power

Detroit Lions Executive Vice President & General Manager Brad Holmes speaks to the press about their season, how it ended and what’s next at the Detroit Lions headquarters and training facility in Allen Park, Mich., Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025.
Detroit Lions Executive Vice President & General Manager Brad Holmes speaks to the press about their season, how it ended and what’s next at the Detroit Lions headquarters and training facility in Allen Park, Mich., Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025. | Kimberly P. Mitchell / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Detroit Lions have probably experienced the most turnover this offseason. They have done a great job retaining their own players like Derrick Barnes, Marcus Davenport, Levi Onwuzurike, and Tim Patrick, to name a few.

Detroit also made a big-time addition in free agency, agreeing to terms with CB D.J. Reed on a three-year, $48 million deal.

He had his introductory press conference on Thursday and revealed that his decision came down to Detroit or Washington. Reed ultimately chose the Lions because he believes they have a chance to win a Super Bowl.

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."

Lions News: D.J. Reed Picked Lions Over Washington Commanders

The Kansas State product is set to replace Carlton Davis, who left town to sign with the New England Patriots.

Reed was one of the best free-agent CBs on the open market and will provide the Lions with reliable force in the secondary. He spent the last three years with the New York Jets and played a role in the Jets finishing with a top-four pass defense since 2022.

In 46 career games with the Jets, Reed put up 220 total tackles, 32 pass deflections, seven TFLs, and two interceptions. He's finished with at least a 70 overall and coverage grade per PFF with New York from 2022-2024.

Amik Robertson also expressed his excitement at the addition and can't wait to take the field with his new teammate.

This past season, the Lions ranked 30th in the league in pass defense (244). With Kelvin Sheppard taking over as the defensive coordinator, he'll have a new chess piece to utilize in the secondary. Both sides are thrilled with the pairing and are looking forward to the 2025 season.

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