Edward Earl Reed Jr., born on September 11, 1978, is a celebrated former professional football player renowned for his exceptional career as a safety in the National Football League (NFL). Spending the majority of his time with the Baltimore Ravens, Reed's impact on the game is undeniable. He showcased his talents at the collegiate level with the Miami Hurricanes, contributing to their national championship victory in 2001 and earning the distinction of a unanimous All-American.
Selected in the first round of the 2002 NFL draft by the Ravens, Reed dedicated eleven seasons to the team before concluding his playing career with the Houston Texans and New York Jets in 2013. His accolades include nine Pro Bowl selections, the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2004, and a Super Bowl XLVII championship. Reed also set remarkable records, including the two longest interception returns in NFL history, measuring one hundred six yards in 2004 and one hundred seven yards in 2008.
Reed's prowess on the field is further highlighted by his all-time NFL record for interception return yards, totaling one thousand five hundred ninety, and his nine postseason interceptions, which he shares with three other players. At the time of his retirement, his sixty-four regular season interceptions ranked him sixth on the NFL's all-time leader list. His reputation as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history is well-deserved, with many referring to him as a 'ball hawk' during his prime.
Beyond his playing days, Reed transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant defensive backs coach for the Buffalo Bills in 2016. In 2020, he returned to his roots at the University of Miami, taking on the role of chief of staff for the football team, where he provides valuable guidance to head coach Manny Diaz.