The Los Angeles Chargers will be focused on bolstering their offense this offseason, but addressing the defense—particularly the cornerback position—will also be a priority. With both Asante Samuel Jr. and Kristian Fulton set to hit free agency, the secondary could become a major area of need.
Many expect Samuel to depart, as the 2021 second-round pick missed most of the 2024 season due to a shoulder injury, and a split between him and the team has seemed inevitable. If the Chargers seek a replacement in free agency, Matt Verderame of Sports Illustrated believes D.J. Reed could be a strong fit.
“Los Angeles is likely to lose 2021 second-round pick Asante Samuel Jr. in free agency, leaving a hole in the secondary. Reed, a California native, would be a great addition for defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who needs a reliable corner to take on top assignments weekly.
In 2024, the Chargers ranked seventh in pass defense and recorded 15 interceptions, the eighth-most in the league. The safety duo of Derwin James and Alohi Gilman is a strength, but adding Reed would give Minter the best corner he’s had in Los Angeles,” Verderame noted.
Matt Bowen of ESPN ranks Reed as the No. 4 free agent available, meaning the Chargers would be acquiring a high-end player—but at a steep cost. Spotrac projects Reed’s market value at nearly $15 million per year, with a potential four-year deal totaling close to $60 million.
A fifth-round pick out of Kansas State in 2018, Reed has played for the 49ers, Seahawks, and Jets. Over seven seasons, he has amassed more than 400 tackles, six interceptions, and an impressive 50 pass deflections, earning a reputation as one of the league’s top cover corners.
The Chargers will have cap space to work with, and after making the playoffs last season, Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz understand that acquiring high-caliber players is crucial to competing in a loaded AFC. If signed, Reed could be a game-changing addition to their defense in 2025.
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