Aarón Glenn and D.J. Reed: A Missed Opportunity in New York

This offseason, two football figures, Aarón Glenn and D.J. Reed, just missed crossing paths in New York, with each heading in opposite directions. Reed, a former Jets cornerback, signed a three-year, $48 million contract with the Detroit Lions, marking the team’s biggest free agency move since Brad Holmes took over as general manager in 2021. Meanwhile, Glenn, the former Lions defensive coordinator, took on the role of head coach for the New York Jets in January.

A Missed Connection: Glenn and Reed’s Paths Never Crossed

Although Glenn never had the chance to coach Reed, he spent a significant amount of time scouting the player. Glenn needed to determine whether Reed was worth continuing to invest in for the Jets’ future. Ultimately, the Jets and Reed parted ways, a decision that may have been influenced by Reed’s desire to play for a more competitive team. Despite the separation, Glenn had nothing but positive things to say about the former Jets cornerback.

“He was scrappy, feisty,” Glenn commented at the annual owners’ meetings. “I ended up talking to D.J. quite a bit before that, just from his free agency coming out. I just thought he was a man’s man, as far as playing the game. He’s not just a cover corner; he’s one that’ll go out there and tackle, too. I think Detroit is getting a dynamic player at corner.”

The Lions’ Cornerback Philosophy: Physicality and Toughness

Glenn’s praise for Reed fits perfectly with the kind of cornerback the Lions have preferred in their defensive scheme. Unlike some other NFL teams, the Lions have always viewed cornerbacks as an essential part of their run defense. Reed’s physical, all-around play style makes him an ideal fit for the Lions’ system, and it’s a characteristic Reed proudly embraces.

“I have grit, I’m a tenacious player, I want to dominate and win every rep,” Reed said during his introductory press conference last month. “I’m a willing tackler as well as corner, which you know most corners don’t want to tackle. Most corners want to cover. I like to throw myself out there when I have to, and I also want to cover as well.”

Reed’s New Role: Detroit’s Top Cornerback

Reed’s arrival in Detroit marks the end of Carlton Davis’ tenure, as Reed is expected to step in as the team’s No. 1 cornerback this season. He will be paired with second-year cornerback Terrion Arnold. Reed has high praise for Arnold, believing he has the potential to be one of the league’s top corners.

“As far as talent, as far as being sticky, it was a reason why he was drafted in the first round. So, he’s going to be very good, in my opinion. I think he’s a Pro Bowl, All-Pro type of guy.”

The Lions’ Defensive Outlook: A Strong Secondary

In the 2024 season, the Detroit Lions finished first in the NFL in passer rating allowed (82.0), fifth in interceptions (16), and seventh in passes defended (81). With Reed joining the secondary, the Lions’ defense is expected to be even stronger in 2025. Reed’s performance with the Jets last season was solid, recording 64 tackles, 11 passes defended, and a sack.

As the Lions look to build on their defensive success, Reed’s scrappy, physical style of play, paired with the leadership of head coach Glenn, could be exactly what the team needs to make a push for the playoffs in the coming years.