Last week was not ideal for Georgia Safety J.R. Reed. Seven rounds. 255 picks. Still his name was not called. Anticipation and frustration. A perplexing time for an athlete that chose to return to school for his final year instead of joining the 2019 NFL Draft.
Fortunately for Reed, a call from the Jacksonville Jaguars came shortly at the conclusion of the final round. The call that he anticipated for years finally came through the line. Reed has the potential to be a steal by the Jaguars as an undrafted collegiate free agent.
J.R. Reed Joins Jacksonville Jaguars
After suffering a torn ACL at Prestonwood Christian High School in Plano, Texas, major college programs backed away from Reed. So he headed north and began his collegiate career at Tulsa University. He spent time on the field as a reserve at Tulsa and decided to head east to Georgia. Although he sat out the 2016 season, his decision to transfer was beneficial for both Reed and the Bulldogs.
From 2017-2019 Reed started 42 consecutive games for the Bulldogs at safety, therefore showcasing his talent and durability. His impact as a critical member of the defensive backfield did not go unnoticed. During his time at Georgia, Reed showcased basic instincts that helped keep the Bulldogs defense ranked near the top nationally.
Key career statistics for Reed include 199 tackles, five interceptions, three fumble recoveries, and two defensive touchdowns. Quite a haul. It was enough for Reed to be a semi-finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back. Additionally, he was a first-team All-SEC (Southeastern Conference) and AP All-American selection in 2019.
However, more than his impressive statistics and accolades was his impact as a leader of the defense. In 2019 he was a permanent captain for the Bulldogs, a badge he wore proudly and with honor. His leadership allowed himself and the defense to be in the correct position every play. This translated into big plays against powerhouses like Florida, Notre Dame, and Alabama.
NFL Combine Invitation
Despite missing the Sugar Bowl with a foot injury, Reed was invited to the 2020 NFL Combine. There, he posted solid numbers in the 40-yard dash (4.58 seconds) and the broad jump (130 inches). However, what makes Reed stand out is his instincts on the field.
Although his frame is not ideal for a safety at the next level, his instincts translate. In college, Reed always found himself around the ball. That is more than just coaching. That is the will of an individual wanting to make the team better. With over 40 starts in the SEC, Reed’s experience against competition has him ready for the NFL.
Also, a major factor that should not go unnoticed is that Reed just turned 25 years old. He displays maturity both on and off the field.
Last Word on J.R. Reed
Based on his production at Georgia, it certainly appears the Jaguars struck gold by landing Reed as an undrafted free agent. Although he lacks remarkable explosiveness and physical traits, his football IQ is at the upper echelon.
Additionally, his family tree can help guide him through the transition. Reed looks to follow in the footsteps of his father Jake Reed who spent over a decade as an NFL receiver. He can also take notes from his uncle, two-time All-Pro defensive back Dale Carter. Entering camp, look for Reed to have a chip on his shoulder after being snubbed during the draft. Reed is sure to turn some heads on the defensive side of the ball and challenge for playing time this season.
