Top free-agent cornerback said he picked Lions over Commanders
Remember when everyone said Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters wasn't aggressive enough in free agency? Nevermind that Peters has used trades to improve Washington's roster, including adding one of the NFL's top left tackles to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels and a top weapon for Daniels.
Still, according to some, Peters wasn't doing enough to maximize Washington's window while Daniels is on a rookie contract. Throughout the week, Peters has added multiple defenders with a clear plan: stop the run and add cornerback depth.
Speaking of cornerbacks, one of the top free-agent cornerbacks revealed on Thursday that the Commanders were one of his finalists.
Former New York Jets cornerback D.J. Reed signed a three-year deal worth $48 million with the Detroit Lions this week.
“Yeah, it was out of Detroit and Washington for me. Just with where I wanted to be, and I felt that those two teams were contenders," Reed told reporters at his introductory press conference.
"Detroit, it’s crazy because before free agency started early that Monday, I prayed to God, and I told him, like, ‘Whatever your will is, I want to go wherever you want me to go.’ And it's crazy because he literally gave me what my heart desired. 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. So, I'm going to a great team. And yeah, have a shot at that Lombardi."
#Lions CB D.J. Reed says that his free agency decision came down to the Lions & the Commanders pic.twitter.com/rxLii5gPLs
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) March 13, 2025
But, we thought Peters wasn't involved with any of the top free agents on the board?
The Commanders liked Reed. They reportedly tried to acquire him before the trade deadline last season. Reed also liked several social media comments regarding the Commanders in recent months. But, regardless of what Detroit fans will tell you, he chose the Lions over the Commanders because they paid him more. It's really that simple.
The chances are that Peters was in deep discussions with multiple free agents but was not going to jeopardize Washington's future salary cap health by overpaying players.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Top free-agent corner says he picked Lions over Commanders
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