Zierlein recently named seven late-round draft picks likely to exceed expectations in 2018. While most consider late Day 3 picks to be depth selections, there are always cases of prospects emerging as surprise contributors in the NFL. One rookie who Zierlein named was San Francisco 49ers fifth-round draft pick D.J. Reed, a cornerback out of Kansas State.
"Reed is on the shorter side for a cornerback at 5-foot-9 1/8, but he's well-built and extremely feisty when challenging the catch," wrote Zierlein. "He has the talent, confidence and ball skills to compete with K'Waun Williams for slot corner reps. His ability as a punt and kick returner help his chances of exceeding expectations."
Reed and second-round draft pick Dante Pettis, a wide receiver out of Washington, were the two top college returners last season. Reed's 14.9 yards per punt return was second only to Pettis, who averaged 20.4.
Reed confirmed that he would get reps at both slot cornerback and free safety as the 49ers kicked off their rookie minicamp last week. He and Pettis also fielded punts during the team's two practices. The young cornerback has no shortage of confidence when it comes to his ability to cover receivers on defense.
"You just watch my film," Reed said after being drafted by San Francisco. "I'm a lock-down corner, first and foremost. I don't get scored on, and then I get interceptions. I get my offense the ball, and I'm a physical tackler. I create turnovers, which is the main thing, and I also do very well in kick return, punt return. I feel like I'm the whole package."
In addition to his contributions in the return game, Reed had four interceptions on defense last year. He did not allow a reception longer than 30 yards in 2017 and surrendered a passer rating of 55.5 when targeted by quarterbacks, according to Pro Football Focus. Reed missed the final two games of the regular season after sustaining an MCL sprain but was able to play in the Cactus Bowl against UCLA.
H/T to Patrick Tulini for the find.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
ESPN analyst predicts 49ers over Bills in Super Bowl LXI
An ESPN NFL analyst is projecting a Super Bowl return for the San Francisco 49ers—and this time, a championship finish. ESPN's panel of experts recently released early predictions for Super Bowl LXI, which will be played at SoFi Stadium on February 14, 2027. Among the... -
49ers QB Mac Jones speculation: Baldinger names logical landing spot
The San Francisco 49ers have made it clear they would like to keep quarterback Mac Jones for the 2026 NFL season after he proved to be a capable backup to Brock Purdy. Jones started eight games in 2025 while Purdy dealt with a turf toe injury, going 5-3 as a starter. He threw... -
Maxx Crosby to 49ers? Adam Schefter reveals the likely trade cost
The San Francisco 49ers would undoubtedly have interest in Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby. The real question is whether the price to acquire him would be too steep. Crosby's relationship with the Raiders has strained, fueling speculation about a potential... -
Will the 49ers draft a WR in Round 1? Two mocks address the same need
The San Francisco 49ers could take several paths with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Help in the trenches—both on the offensive and defensive lines—remains a priority. The secondary could also use reinforcements. There's even a scenario in which the 49ers add...