For the final 30 days leading up to the start of Seattle Seahawks training camp, we will be counting down the 30 most important players on the roster heading into the 2019 season.
After two solid years of production as a run-stuffing defensive tackle, Jarran Reed exploded onto the scene as a pass-rusher in 2018. He recorded 10.5 sacks, along with 34 solo tackles, 24 quarterback hits and two fumble recoveries – all career highs.
Reed’s rapid growth was a huge boost for the Seahawks, who went into last season with very little depth on the defensive line and in the pass rushing game.
Now, even after the additions of Ezekiel Ansah and rookie L.J. Collier, the Seahawks will rely on Reed’s ability to get to the quarterback more than ever following Frank Clark’s departure.
The biggest concern regarding Reed at this point, however, has nothing to do with his performance on the field.
Heading into the final year of his rookie contract, Reed wants an extension to keep him in Seattle long-term. Specifically, he is expected to look for a contract in the ballpark of the four-year, $68 million dollar deal signed by Atlanta’s Grady Jarrett earlier this week.
While very little has been said by either side about negotiations, a recent tweet from Reed may indicate that the Seahawks are planning to table negotiations until after this season.
Reed will either be trying to prove he is worth his new contract, if he gets a deal done, or that he deserves an extension if the Seahawks don’t give him one.
Regardless, expected a highly-motivated Reed to be disrupting the running lanes and terrorizing opposing quarterbacks throughout the 2019 season. His presence will be crucial for a young Seahawks defensive unit this year.
