By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions have made a major splash this offseason by signing veteran cornerback D.J. Reed, a player celebrated for his toughness and versatility. While fans are already excited about the addition, one person who knows Reed well—former Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn—is shedding light on exactly what Detroit is gaining.
High Praise from Aaron Glenn
Now the head coach of the New York Jets, Glenn took the opportunity at the NFL Owners Meetings to share his thoughts on Reed. Having been in discussions with the cornerback during past free agency periods, Glenn emphasized that Reed is more than just a solid defender—he’s the total package.
“He was scrappy, feisty,” Glenn said. “I ended up talking to D.J. quite a bit before that, just from his free agency. I thought he was a man’s man, as far as playing the game. He’s not just a cover corner, he’s one that will go out there and tackle too.”
A Perfect Fit for Detroit’s Identity
Reed isn’t just a lockdown corner—he’s a physical, high-energy player who thrives on contact. His hard-nosed approach aligns perfectly with the gritty, no-nonsense culture that head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes have been building in Detroit.
By bringing Reed on board, the Lions are adding more than just skill to their secondary—they’re gaining leadership and a fierce competitor. Glenn, who has seen Reed’s work ethic firsthand, believes Detroit is getting exactly the kind of difference-maker they need.
“Detroit’s getting a dynamic player at corner,” Glenn added. His words reinforce what many around the league already know: D.J. Reed is a game-changer.