The Washington Redskins have long believed in tight end Jordan Reed's talent, they just haven't believed in his ability to stay on the field. A third-round pick in 2013, Reed missed seven games in his rookie season and five games in 2014. Though he posted solid numbers when healthy, it was maddening not knowing whether or not he'd be able to go in a given week.
Reed still missed time this season (two games), but what he did on the field more than washed away any lingering doubts the Redskins might have had about him. In 14 games he caught 87 passes for 952 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was the best tight end in the NFL this side of Rob Gronkowski and was a big part of Washington's playoff push. As he enters the final year of his rookie contract he has more than earned a lucrative extension.
"Prior to 2015, the biggest impediment to production for Reed was durability, as he missed 12 games during his first two seasons," ESPN NFL Insider Field Yates wrote. "He played 14 games in 2015 and evolved into a megastar. What makes Reed so dynamic is that, from an athleticism standpoint, he is essentially an oversized receiver. At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, however, he's an exceptionally tough cover for linebackers and cornerbacks alike. A precise route runner with terrific run-after-catch skills, Reed had at least 120 receiving yards and at least a touchdown in three of his team's final five games (including the wild-card game). General manager Scot McCloughan believes in building a roster through the draft. Locking up Reed makes sense - his price tag will skyrocket if he plays in 2016 how he did during the final month of this season."
The New England Patriots signed Gronkowski to a six-year deal worth $54 million ($12.9 million guaranteed) back in 2012. Something slightly less expensive could be in the works for Reed should he stay healthy next season. As Kirk Cousins' go-to target, the Redskins can't afford to let Reed walk in free agency.
