Jets' DJ Reed delivers 'historical' bold prediction, name drops '85 Bears
The Jets defense has taken a back seat in New York tabloids since the arrival of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. While the future Hall of Famer will make Gang Green must-see TV, the team's defense gives true credibility to New York's lofty Super Bowl aspirations.
The NFL's fourth-ranked defense in 2022, the Jets return eight of 11 starters from last year's unit, including cornerback DJ Reed, who foresees the defense taking a monumental step forward in 2023.
Speaking with reporters on a Monday Zoom call, Reed didn't mince words while discussing his expectations for the defense heading into the season, claiming the unit can be "historical" and on par with the dominant Chicago Bears defense from 1985.
The 1985 Bears defense is widely considered the greatest in NFL history. Led by Hall of Famers Mike Singletary, Dan Hampton and Richard Dent, the defense allowed a league-best 12.4 ppg and didn't allow a single postseason point until Super Bowl XX, where they defeated the New England Patriots 46-10.
Comparing a modern-day NFL defense to the historic Bears unit will be difficult to gauge in 2023, as the game has vastly evolved over the last 38 years. Rule changes and schematics have played into the offense's favor, apparent by a rampant uptick in offensive production.
For reference, only one offense in the NFL — the San Diego Chargers (6,535) — accounted for more than 5,920 yards from scrimmage in 1985. In 2022, 13 of the 32 offenses in football accomplished the feat, led by the Kansas City Chiefs, who totaled 7,032 yards from scrimmage.
The Jets have done a lot of talking this offseason for a team that has finished last in its division for three consecutive seasons and hasn't advanced to the postseason since 2010. However, their defense may be able to foot the bill, finishing top-four last season in both points and yards surrendered.
While it remains to be seen whether they're on a '85 Bears level, the Jets defense should remain a dominant unit in 2023 and serve as a catalyst for their hopeful climb out of mediocrity.
Reed and the Jets will have a chance to back up their talk directly out the gates this season, welcoming the Buffalo Bills and the NFL's reigning No. 2 ranked offense into MetLife Stadium in Week 1.
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