The San Francisco 49ers are entering a critical win-now window. With plans to extend quarterback Brock Purdy this offseason, the team must adopt an aggressive, all-in approach. While the front office might not have room for multiple high-priced contracts, they can still make strategic moves in free agency.
Armed with over $50 million in cap space for 2025 and coming off a disappointing 6-11 season, the 49ers need a spark. They’ve already zeroed in on Robert Saleh as their top choice for defensive coordinator and could be eyeing another familiar face in free agency.
Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department recently released its top 50 impending NFL free agents, pairing each player with potential suitors. Among the top 10 is New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed, an intriguing name for the 49ers to consider.
49ers Eyeing Secondary Upgrade
According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, the San Francisco 49ers could be a potential landing spot for Reed in free agency.
Originally a 5th-round pick by the 49ers, Reed struggled to make an impact early in his career. Despite showing flashes of potential, he was waived by San Francisco, only to be picked up by the Seattle Seahawks. In Seattle, Reed thrived with increased playing time, earning a reputation as a reliable cornerback. His success led to a three-year, $33 million contract with the New York Jets.
With the Jets, Reed has flown under the radar despite his impressive consistency and elite coverage skills. Since 2022, he’s earned a 75.7 coverage grade and an 84.1 passer rating when targeted, per Pro Football Focus.
In 2024, Reed posted strong numbers, allowing an opposing passer rating of 89.2 while contributing 64 tackles, four tackles for loss, a sack, and 11 passes defended. He’s also a solid run defender, boasting a 71.8 PFF grade—a significant upgrade over the 49ers’ impending free agent Charvarius Ward, who graded 23.4 points lower in run defense.
According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, multiple teams expressed interest in Reed ahead of the trade deadline. While it’s unclear if the 49ers were among them, it wouldn’t be surprising to see San Francisco pursue the 29-year-old cornerback.
How D.J. Reed Fits in San Francisco
Reed would be an ideal addition to the 49ers. Depending on the cost, he could step in and immediately replace Charvarius Ward in the secondary. Reed has primarily played on the outside, logging 2,722 snaps there over the past three seasons. Pairing him with Deommodore Lenoir and Renardo Green would elevate the 49ers’ secondary to one of the best in the league. All three corners offer inside/outside versatility, providing the defense with flexibility and depth.
A move to San Francisco could also reunite Reed with Robert Saleh, assuming Saleh accepts the defensive coordinator position. Reed’s familiarity with Saleh’s system would make for a seamless transition and could maximize his impact on the 49ers’ defense.
For Reed, a return to the 49ers would not only be a strategic career move but also a chance to come full circle. With the 49ers focused on contending for a championship, adding Reed would bolster their defense with a dependable veteran capable of shutting down opposing quarterbacks and making critical plays. His presence could be the difference-maker San Francisco needs to reclaim its place among the league’s elite teams.
