FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- When New York Jets coach Rex Ryan learned Tuesday that Ed Reed had been released by the Houston Texans, he rushed upstairs to general manager John Idzik's office to make a pitch for the nine-time Pro Bowl safety.

About 30 hours later, after Reed cleared waivers, it was a done deal.

"It's only a rumor that I pulled a hamstring," Ryan said jokingly Thursday, recalling his hurry-up offensive.

Everything happened quickly.

After a midnight meeting with Idzik, Reed returned to the facility early Thursday morning, signed his contract, practiced on aching feet (new cleats) and claimed he's ready to help the Jets for their playoff push. He's expected to play in a situational role Sunday against the Buffalo Bills.

"It feels good," Reed said after practice. "It feels right."

This is a reunion for Reed and Ryan, who spent seven seasons together with the Baltimore Ravens.

Ryan, who once called Reed "the best safety that's ever played," insisted this wasn't a sentimental move. He still believes Reed, 35, coming off an unproductive stint with the Texans, can make an impact on a defense.

"I'd say that's a false statement, that he can't play anymore," Ryan said.

Reed lost his starting job in Houston, where he managed only 16 tackles and had zero interceptions or pass breakups in seven games. He was waived after making critical comments about the coaching staff.

As soon as he became available, the Jets broke down tape of his seven games, trying to determine if Reed is washed up or a victim of circumstances.

It's the latter, said defensive coordinator Dennis Thurman, another former Ravens assistant close with Reed. Thurman said they were satisfied with his coverage skills, both man-to-man and in different zones. They believe his stats were low because opponents avoided throwing in his vicinity.

"He wasn't far off from the guy we had in Baltimore," Thurman said. "Is he the same? Not at 35, but he's not far from it. It wasn't what he was doing [in Houston]; it was what the offense wasn't doing."