By Blessing 
Seven years might not feel like a long time for most, but in the world of football, it can feel like a lifetime. For newly-signed Detroit Lions cornerback D.J. Reed, that stretch of time brings back memories—some that feel distant, others still vivid.
As a way to stay grounded, Reed holds on to a photo from his early days as a freshman walk-on at Fresno State. His journey didn’t stop there—he later transferred to a junior college before finally earning a scholarship at Kansas State. It’s been a winding road, but now Reed stands tall as a seasoned NFL veteran.
Still, he’s chasing something bigger.
“I wanted to get paid, I wanted to play with dogs, and gratefully, I’m playing with dogs on the defensive side and on the offensive side,” Reed said. “So I’m going to a great team and have a shot at that Lombardi. That was my goal — win a Super Bowl.”
Now in Detroit, Reed’s story continues—this time with his sights set squarely on football’s ultimate prize.