2. CB Nikko Reed
The undrafted rookie free agent could be getting his first NFL shot in Week 9.
Starting cornerback Tarheeb Still is unlikely to play this week, according to Harbaugh, meaning there will be opportunities in the secondary this week for Reed.
Reed has played one defensive snap this year but has been inactive for seven of the eight regular season games thus far.
And heading into Tennessee with the potential of his first extended run in the NFL, he’s ready for the moment.
“I feel great. I’m ready,” Reed said on Wednesday. “I’ve been waiting for this moment, can’t wait to execute.”
Even though Reed hasn’t been active on gamedays, it’s hard to forget how much of a game-changer he was in the preseason that led to him making the active roster.
The rookie out of Oregon notched an interception and finished preseason with four passes defensed in three games and also made a number of splash plays during training camp practices.
In three preseason games, he finished allowing just three receptions for 16 yards on 10 targets and a passer rating of 33.3 when thrown at.
Reed has been staying ready however he can, and the Bolts defense is excited to get a look on what he can bring to the unit.
“A lot of times, a fresh guy in there that hasn’t played a lot can bring a spark, can bring some juice,” Minter said. “We know the type of player Nikko is, we have a ton of confidence in him based on what he’s done.
“The players are excited to see him play based on what he did in the preseason and training camp and in practices,” Minter added. “Super excited about that position and what we can get out of it.”
Reed added: “It’s been a minute since I played. Last time I played, I had lots of fun so I’m ready to pick back up on that.”