The backbone of Penn State’s defense and a key component of the Nittany Lions’ run to the College Football Playoffs was Jaylen Reed. At this point, Reed is focusing on the NFL.
After an unforgettable last season with the Nittany Lions, Reed is heading to the 2025 NFL draft. The outstanding safety for the Nittany Lions also praised his teammates, coaches, and supporters on Sunday.
“I want to thank God first and foremost for giving me the chance to play the game I love and to follow my dreams,” Reed stated. I also want to express my gratitude to my family, especially my parents, who have supported me throughout my entire journey and served as the cornerstone of my support network. I am who I am today because of your help and advice.
I am grateful to all of my coaches at 3200 and Penn State for encouraging me to be the best player and person I can be on and off the field. I’m grateful to the Penn State community for hosting me. I will always treasure the memories I have of playing in front of 100,000 people in Happy Valley.
In his last year of eligibility, Reed was a vital component of Penn State’s defense. With 98 tackles, he led the team—the most by a Nittany Lion since Ellis Brooks’ 100 in 2021. Since Marcus Allen’s 110 stops in 2016, it was the most by a defensive back at Penn State.
Reed played in more games than any previous Penn State player, of course. However, he is a major factor in the Nittany Lions’ success, as they advanced to the CFP semifinal and almost missed the national championship game while vying for the Big Ten crown.
Reed recorded three interceptions in addition to his tackle productivity. In a pivotal road victory for the Nittany Lions, his interception at USC forced OT. At Wisconsin, he also had a significant pick-six.
Given the events surrounding his final season in Happy Valley, Reed’s influence on the defense is even more profound. In Tom Allen’s 4-2-5 style, Reed was expected to be the standout at the Lion position, a mobile fifth defensive back. When fellow safety and anticipated top draft pick Kevin Winston Jr. sustained a season-ending injury in early September, that changed. In Winston’s absence, Reed had to play a more conventional free safety position, and he did well.
Everyone has been able to view the production. Prior to the CFP quarterfinal matchup with Boise State, Allen stated, “The key tackles, the key interceptions at critical times.” He’s one of those guys, though, who constantly texts me and says, “Put this on me.” He aspires to be the man. That gap has enhanced everything about him, including his leadership and playmaking skills. It’s been interesting to watch him accept and react to it.
Allen went on to say that Reed will have long-term advantages as he prepares to play in the NFL thanks to this season and his experience leading Penn State’s defense.
Reed will now have the opportunity to establish himself at a higher level.
Penn State I cherish you.God bless me as I pursue my dreams. #THE1#UNOpic.twitter.com/aHvrmtEu5T
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Johnny McGonigal