In his early days as Seahawks head coach, Mike Macdonald spent considerable time discussing the roster with general manager and president of football operations John Schneider. While several players had more accolades, one name Schneider consistently highlighted was veteran defensive tackle Jarran Reed.
A second-round pick by Seattle in 2016, Reed played five seasons with the team before short stints in Kansas City and Green Bay, ultimately returning to the Seahawks in 2023. Macdonald was already familiar with Reed’s talent from his college days at Alabama—when Macdonald was a young assistant in Baltimore—but it wasn’t until he worked with Reed directly that he fully understood Schneider’s praise.
“I always knew he was a great player,” Macdonald said. “John kept emphasizing how much he brings, not just as a player but as a person and leader—and he’s really proven that. He’s leading our defense and brings an incredible presence to the locker room. He strikes the right balance between being serious and keeping things fun. He sets the tone, holds the standard, and makes the daily grind of football more enjoyable for everyone.”
Last season, Jarran Reed became the 50th player in Seahawks history to play 100 games for the franchise, and this year he’ll reach another major milestone—his 10th NFL season. Reed is now one of the key veteran voices in the locker room. Among active players, only Johnathan Hankins, DeMarcus Lawrence, Leonard Williams, and Jason Myers have been in the league longer, but none have spent as much time with Seattle. Though he’s now mentoring younger players like rookie Byron Murphy II, Reed still feels connected to his early days learning from veterans like Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril.
“It’s gone by quickly,” Reed said about reaching Year 10. “I still feel like I’ve got a lot left in the tank. The game’s slowed down for me, and while I’m surrounded by younger guys, I still feel young myself. I feel great—refreshed, healthy, and grateful.”
As for maintaining a high level of play into his 30s, Reed says it’s all about staying sharp and focused. “I just want to be the best version of myself, be reliable, make my reps count, and keep my game where it needs to be.”
Beyond his on-field production—4.5 sacks, 45 tackles, and 15 QB hits last season—Reed plays a big role in shaping the team’s culture. He strikes a balance between leadership and keeping things light.
