The New York Jets’ pass defense has been outstanding in 2024, solidifying their reputation as the top defensive unit in football. However, changes could be coming in 2025.
Star cornerback D.J. Reed is set to hit free agency, and he recently stated that he has no intention of negotiating a contract this season. Unless he changes his stance, Reed will likely test the market and have the chance to secure a lucrative deal. The Jets are aware of the potential to lose him, especially with the need to pay several key players soon. Without some creative financial maneuvering, it’s unlikely they’ll be able to afford Reed.
This could leave a significant gap in their defense.
Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department has suggested an intriguing replacement: San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir.
“A large part of the Jets’ defensive success is due to the cornerback duo of Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed, one of the best tandems in the league. But with Reed set to become a 28-year-old free agent, the Jets may consider pivoting to a younger option like Deommodore Lenoir. At 26, Lenoir has shown he’s a capable starter.”
While Lenoir hasn’t reached Reed’s level of play throughout his career, finding a cornerback of Reed’s caliber at a lower price is rare in the NFL.
Still, Lenoir is a solid player, earning a 72.6 coverage grade in 2023 according to PFF, along with a 72.5 overall grade, placing him well above average for his position.
Like Reed, Lenoir has benefited from playing on an elite 49ers defense, and the Jets wouldn’t have to worry about a talent drop-off if he joined them.
It’s worth noting that 2023 was Lenoir’s best season by far. In 2022, he posted a 51.0 coverage grade, raising some concerns about his consistency moving forward.
However, if Lenoir continues to build on his 2023 success, the Jets may feel confident in signing him as a replacement.