Did the Lions Just Drop $48 Million on a Headache?
The Detroit Lions went big this offseason — and they’ve made some bold moves. But one of those bold moves might already be biting them back.
Let’s talk about the $48 million question: cornerback D.J. Reed
Reed came over from the Jets and signed a fat three-year, $48 million deal, making him one of Detroit’s marquee pickups. The plan? Pair him with rising stars Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and turn that shaky secondary into something dangerous.
But here’s the thing — people are already wondering if the Lions messed this one up.
Sure, Reed’s a solid vet. No one’s saying he’s bad. But is he $16 million per year good? That’s where it gets dicey. When you compare his deal to someone like Jaire Alexander, who signed with the Ravens for just $6 million (and only $4 million guaranteed!), it really starts to look like Detroit might’ve overpaid. And Jaire’s resume? Way flashier than Reed’s, even with the injury history.
Reed turns 29 this season — and if you know cornerbacks, you know that’s often when the wheels start to wobble. The decline can come fast. Last year, he was ranked 42nd out of 222 corners by Pro Football Focus. Not terrible — but also not “top-dollar” territory either.
It’s not just about what he’s done — it’s about what the Lions are betting he can still do. And that’s a risky game.
If GM Brad Holmes could go back in time, there’s a good chance he’d take the cheaper, more proven option in Alexander. That said, maybe Reed proves everyone wrong and becomes a beast alongside All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph. Best case, the Lions end up looking smart after all.
But for now? That $48 million contract is looking more like a regret than a win.
