CHERISHANN DIAMZON / CONTRIBUTOR

Ja’Seem Reed, a senior wide receiver at USD, has signed with the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent, following the 2025 NFL Draft.

Reed played four seasons with the Toreros and ended his college career with 77 receptions, 1,052 yards and 12 touchdowns.

USD football Head Coach Brandon Moore explained how Reed’s work ethic played a role in creating this opportunity.

“He had a great career at USD and was a huge part of our offense,” Moore said. “The NFL is tough, but Ja’Seem works hard and really commits to the process. I think that gives him a chance.”

Moore described Reed’s speed as a major strength  as   well.

“Well, I think one of the team’s biggest gifts is his speed,” Moore emphasized. “He ran very well for us. He was the fastest player on our team, and I think that’s going to give him a shot to make the Browns.” 

Reed is one of  several former  USD players  to reach the NFL in recent years, including tight end Ross Dwelley, wide receiver and return specialist Jamal Agnew, tight-end Dalton Kincaid and quarterback Josh Johnson. Agnew now plays for the Atlanta Falcons after time with the Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars. Kincaid was a first-round pick by the Buffalo Bills in 2023. Johnson, a veteran quarterback, has played for multiple NFL teams.

“[USD has] had a few guys reach that level now,” Moore said. “It shows that there’s serious competition in this league and that players here can develop and succeed.”

On campus, some students were just finding out about Reed’s signing. USD first-year Gabriel Benitez said the news caught him off guard.

“It’s pretty insane to see a student from USD sign something that big,” Benitez noted. “It’s crazy.” 

Others discussed what Reed’s   move   might  mean for the school. Senior Samuel Kronen commented on Reed’s signing.

“I think it’s super awesome,” Kronen explained. “It represents our school really well and our athletics. I hope it brings in more school spirit, especially when it comes to athletics, which I feel like sometimes USD lacks.” 

USD junior Adamaris Flores Velazques also learned about the signing this week.

“It’s very exciting, because I did not know that at all,” Velazquez said. “I’m, like, not knowledgeable in football or what’s going on, necessarily. So that’s pretty exciting for him.” 

Velazquez also described feeling proud to see a classmate reach the NFL.

“Super proud,” Velazquez said. “Like, there’s a lot that goes into, you know, having, what would feel like a classmate and alumni from USD, like your school going and representing.”

Reed still has to make the Browns’ final roster — signing as an undrafted free agent doesn’t mean he’s guaranteed anything. Most of these contracts run three years at the league minimum. Teams can cut undrafted players at any time, so there’s not much security.

Over the next few months, Reed  will  try  to earn a spot during offseason workouts, rookie minicamp and preseason games.

NFL teams must reduce their rosters from about 90 players to 53 before the regular season begins. If Reed does not make the Browns’ roster, he could be claimed by another team or signed to a practice squad, where players can continue to develop and may be promoted during the season.

Ja’Seem Reed’s pictured during his first year at USD. Photo courtesy of @jaseemreed_/Instagram