American · Destrehan, USA · Born 11 September 1978Ed Reed was a Baltimore Ravens free safety and one of the most prolific ball-hawks in NFL history, ranking among the career interception leaders.
Born September 11, 1978, in St. Rose, Louisiana, Edward Earl Reed Jr. developed his athletic talents at Destrehan High School before accepting a scholarship to the University of Miami. At Miami, he became a cornerstone of the Hurricanes' dominant defense, helping the team capture the 2001 national championship. His college career featured spectacular interception returns and established him as one of the premier defensive backs in college football history. The Baltimore Ravens selected Reed with the 24th overall pick in the 2002 NFL Draft, beginning a career that would redefine the safety position. During his peak years from 2004 to 2008, Reed transformed into the league's most feared defensive back, combining exceptional ball skills with remarkable field vision and return ability. His 2004 season proved particularly dominant, earning him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award after recording nine interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. Reed's ability to change field position and create scoring opportunities made him a unique weapon in Baltimore's defense. Reed's statistical achievements remain unparalleled among NFL safeties. His 64 career interceptions rank among the highest in league history, while his 1,590 interception return yards established an NFL record that may never be broken. He holds the record for the longest interception return in NFL history at 107 yards, achieved against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2004. His nine Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors reflect his sustained excellence throughout his 12-season career. Reed's impact on the Ravens culminated with their Super Bowl XLVII championship following the 2012 season, providing a fitting capstone to his Baltimore tenure. His revolutionary approach to the safety position influenced defensive schemes league-wide and established new standards for the position. The Pro Football Hall of Fame recognized his contributions with induction in 2019, while his selection to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team confirmed his status among the greatest defensive players in league history.
Baltimore Ravens ball-hawking free safety
His career interception return yardage of 1,590 yards is so far ahead of any other player that no current active player is projected to challenge it.
Did You Know?How They Played
Ball-hawking free safety with exceptional range, instincts, and ability to create turnovers; known for his anticipation and return skills
Lasting Impact
Widely regarded as one of the greatest safeties in NFL history, revolutionized the free safety position with his ball-hawking ability and field vision
Career Honours
- Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Super Bowl XLVII champion
- 2004 NFL Defensive Player of the Year
- 9x Pro Bowl
- 5x First-Team All-Pro
| Team | Period | Games |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore Ravens | 2002–2012 | 174 |
| Houston Texans | 2013–2013 | 7 |
| New York Jets | 2013–2013 | 7 |
American Athletes