D.J. Reed

D.J. Reed Bio

Dennis Duane “D. J.” Reed Jr. is an American professional football cornerback for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Kansas State Wildcats and was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL draft. Reed has established himself as a notable player in the league, recognized for his defensive skills and contributions to multiple teams throughout his career.

Early Life and Background

D. J. Reed was born on November 11, 1996, in Bakersfield, California. He attended Independence High School, where he excelled in football and basketball. During his high school football career, Reed recorded six interceptions and five forced fumbles, accumulating 1,150 total yards of offense and scoring 13 touchdowns. His impressive performance earned him the distinction of being the first student in his school’s history to be named MVP in both football and basketball. After high school, Reed faced challenges in securing scholarship offers, ultimately deciding to pursue football full-time. He earned a spot as a walk-on at Fresno State after a successful tryout for their football team.

Path to American Football

Reed redshirted his freshman year at Fresno State in 2014. After the coaching staff did not offer him a scholarship, he transferred to Cerritos College, where he played one season, recording 42 tackles, three pass breakups, and two interceptions. Following his time at Cerritos, Reed transferred to Kansas State, where he made a significant impact as a cornerback and return specialist. In 2016, he started 12 games, totaling 75 tackles, 19 pass breakups, and three interceptions, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors. In 2017, he continued to excel, recording 47 tackles and four interceptions, and received second-team All-American honors. Reed declared for the 2018 NFL draft after his junior season.

D.J. Reed Career

Early Career (2018-2019)

D. J. Reed was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL draft, being the 16th cornerback drafted. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth $2.77 million. Reed made his professional debut on September 9, 2018, in the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings. He earned his first career start on September 30, 2018, against the Los Angeles Chargers, recording two combined tackles. Reed finished his rookie season with 41 combined tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble in 15 games.

Breakthrough (2020-2021)

In 2020, Reed was claimed off waivers by the Seattle Seahawks after being waived by the 49ers due to a torn pectoral muscle. He made his debut with the Seahawks on November 1, 2020, against the 49ers, recording six solo tackles and his first career interception. Reed established himself as a starting cornerback, finishing the season with 62 combined tackles, seven pass deflections, and two interceptions. In 2021, he continued to perform well, starting all 14 games he played and achieving a career-high of 78 combined tackles.

Notable Works and Milestones

Throughout his career, D. J. Reed has been recognized for his defensive skills, earning accolades such as the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year and multiple All-Big 12 selections. His performance has contributed significantly to the teams he has played for, showcasing his ability to impact games defensively.

D.J. Reed Award Nominations

D. J. Reed has received several accolades throughout his career, including nominations for various awards during his college and professional career, highlighting his talent and contributions to the sport.

D.J. Reed Awards Won

Reed has achieved notable awards during his career, including the Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year in 2016, and he was named a second-team All-American in 2017. He has also received recognition as a two-time first-team All-Big 12 player.