Pete Carroll says D.J. Reed deserves to keep starting at right cornerback

One of the surprises of the season has been the emergence of cornerback D.J. Reed, who was claimed by the Seahawks in the summer after being waived by the 49ers.

Originally expected to compete for snaps at nickelback once healthy, Reed has instead slid into the right cornerback spot on the outside as a result of injuries to Tre Flowers and Quinton Dunbar. And not only has he helped Seattle to get by at that position, but he has been outstanding doing so, providing the Seahawks with the type of steady play opposite Shaquill Griffin that Dunbar was expected to provide.

With Dunbar expected to return soon, Reed’s starting spot will be challenged. However, as Pete Carroll made it known after Reed’s best game of the season, it will be his to lose.

Carroll saved perhaps the highest praise for Monday on 710 ESPN Seattle, comparing Reed’s attitude to an all-time Seahawks great.

Reed has exceeded expectations in every way during his audition to start and will now, rightfully, get the chance to hang on to his starting spot the rest of the way. And, if Carroll’s comparison to Baldwin proves correct, it’s hard to imagine Reed giving up the right cornerback spot down the stretch.