For those following the blog, you know I've been critical of Ed Reed and his campaign to get a new deal. My response has always been to go out and earn a new contract.

Through four games, Reed has done exactly that. He's almost matched last year's interception total and he's back being a physical presence again. Reed has been more cautious when it comes to making the big hit ever since he's had that nerve impingement in his neck.

Here are some interesting facts about Reed's 59 career interceptions, courtesy of the Ravens public relations department:

• Reed's 59 career interceptions rank first among active NFL players since he entered the league in 2002. Additionally, his 1,506 return yards and 25.5-yard return average rank first in NFL history.

• 36 have come in the second half (most in the NFL since ‘02) and 22 in the fourth quarter (most in the NFL since ‘02).

• 15 have come in the month of September, the NFL’s most among active players in that month.

• Reed’s eight career playoff interceptions rank as the most among active players.