Reed scores first TDs in nearly two years in first 49ers start

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Jordan Reed's first touchdowns as a 49er were a long time coming.

Six hundred and seventy-three days long, in fact.

Reed's 18-yard and 4-yard TD receptions in the second quarter Sunday against the New York Jets were the tight end's first since Nov. 18, 2018.

The 30-year-old didn't play at all last season, sitting out all of 2019 after sustaining a concussion in the Washington Football Team's third preseason game. Sunday marked his first start since Dec. 3, 2018.

The 49ers signed Reed to provide depth behind All-Pro tight end George Kittle, but he climbed to the top of the depth chart (at least temporarily) in his second game with San Francisco.

Kittle didn't play Sunday after injuring his knee during the 49ers' season opener against the Arizona Cardinals, and Reed started in his place. Reed filled in admirably in the first half, catching six passes for 49 yards and the aforementioned touchdowns.

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Although Kittle could return next week against the New York Giants, the 49ers have to be pleased knowing Reed is a productive "next man up." After losing defensive linemen Nick Bosa and Solomon Thomas to injuries in the first quarter, defensive coordinator Robert Saleh would love for that to be the case on the other side of the ball, too.

Reed's performance in the first half of his first start in nearly two years will be a tough act to follow, though.

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