Jets’ Talented Cornerback DJ Reed Eyes Potential Reunion with Saleh in San Francisco
The New York Jets are bracing for a significant talent exodus in the impending free agency period. Even before the recent buzz surrounding the Jets parting ways with Aaron Rodgers, the team had notable players set to hit the open market. Among these impending free agents, one standout is 28-year-old cornerback DJ Reed. Regarded as one of the premier cornerbacks entering free agency, Reed is poised to secure a lucrative deal after his tenure under a three-year, $33 million contract with the Jets. Projections by Spotrac suggest his market value to soar above $58 million over four years, making him a highly sought-after asset for any team looking to fortify its cornerback corps.
Reviving the Saleh-Reed Dynamic Duo
Pro Football Focus’ Mason Cameron recently outlined his vision for the offseason, highlighting four key moves, one of which includes Reed reuniting with the San Francisco 49ers. In Cameron’s analysis, he advocates for Reed’s transition to the 49ers, emphasizing the potential synergy between Reed and his former defensive play-caller, Robert Saleh. Saleh, who now serves as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator, shares a history with Reed, witnessing firsthand the cornerback’s prowess in the defensive scheme.
During Reed’s tenure under Saleh in New York, he showcased exceptional performance, notably earning a remarkable 90.1 PFF coverage grade in quarters coverage looks. Saleh’s defensive philosophy underscores the significance of an outside cornerback proficient in man coverage, a skill set in which Reed has excelled. Their collaboration bore fruit, with Reed amassing 469 man coverage snaps, boasting a high rate of incompletions forced on targets into his coverage, and securing an impressive 83.1 PFF coverage grade.
Prospects of a Reunion in San Francisco
As Saleh has already made a return to the 49ers, speculation looms over the possibility of Reed following suit this offseason. The potential reunion between Reed and Saleh in San Francisco holds promise, offering both parties a chance to reignite the successful partnership they once enjoyed in New York. With Saleh’s defensive acumen and Reed’s proven capabilities on the field, the prospect of their collaboration resurfacing in a new setting underscores an exciting narrative to watch unfold in the upcoming NFL season.
Amidst the shifting landscape of free agency and team dynamics, the allure of a Saleh-Reed reunion in San Francisco adds a layer of intrigue to the evolving offseason narrative in the NFL. As fans and analysts eagerly await the unfolding of player movements and team strategies, the potential synergy between Reed and Saleh stands out as a compelling storyline that could reshape the defensive landscape of the 49ers.
