The Dallas Cowboys would be an obvious landing spot for any notable defensive free agent, as they are currently dead last in the league in pass defense and allowed a miserable 625 total yards to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday night -- also a franchise record. The Cowboys are already working out Michael Huff, but would Reed be a better fit overall?
The Green Bay Packers are also an intriguing option for Reed. As the team prepares to survive without Aaron Rodgers for a few weeks, the defense will need to step up to another level -- something they haven't been able to do all season. The Packers rank 21st in pass defense at the moment, and that number could go up if their offense can't put lengthy drives together, forcing the opposition's offense on the field more than not. They are clearly still suffering from a lack of leadership in the secondary since losing Charles Woodson, and Reed could be a good fit.
The New England Patriots would be a great fit for Reed, specifically because of a recent injury to safety Steve Gregory. Prior to injury, Gregory was the voice of the defense for the past couple of games after Jerod Mayo was injured. The Patriots need someone to step in and make the play calls; someone who is savvy enough to know the scheme and get people where they're supposed to be. Could that be Reed? I'm sure Bill Belichick wouldn't surprise anyone by going after another veteran during a controversial time in their life.
This would be an interesting scenario. Because of how well the San Francisco 49ers' front seven plays, the secondary hasn't had to be the hero of many games this year. However, with an injury to safety Eric Reid this past week, the 49ers could be in the market for another safety. Reid was evaluated for what would be his second concussion of the season already. Reed would come in with very little pressure to be "the man," and might end up thriving with a true contender in San Francisco.
Out of all the teams needing their defense to step up this year, the Chicago Bears have been one of the headliners. Normally a solid, tough and ball-hawking group, the Bears' defense has been downright horrid this season. If it wasn't for their 12 interceptions and eight fumble recoveries, the Bears probably would have a couple less wins. Chris Conte and Major Wright have been just plain bad this year when it comes to angles in both the passing game and on their tackling. Neither have warranted keeping a starting job going into next season. Most importantly, with Lance Briggs and Charles Tillman out and Brian Urlacher no longer there, the Bears need a vocal leader -- Reed could be just that.
Get our content customized for you directly to your inbox!
