In a move that is sure to send shockwaves throughout the NFL, the New Orleans Saints have agreed to terms with former Kansas City Chiefs safety Justin Reid on a three-year, $31.5 million deal. The contract, which includes $22.25 million fully guaranteed, is a major coup for the Saints, who are looking to bolster their secondary in the wake of several key departures.
Reid, a Louisiana native, is returning home to play for the Saints, a team he grew up idolizing. The 25-year-old safety is a talented young player who has already made a name for himself in the NFL, earning a reputation as one of the league’s top young safeties.
“We are thrilled to welcome Justin back home to Louisiana,” said Saints general manager Mickey Loomis. “He is a talented young player who fits perfectly into our defensive scheme. We believe he has the potential to be a key contributor to our team for years to come.”
Reid’s decision to sign with the Saints is a major boost to the team’s secondary, which was in need of an infusion of talent. The Saints lost several key players in free agency, including safety Marcus Williams, who signed with the Baltimore Ravens.
The addition of Reid, however, should help to mitigate the loss of Williams and provide the Saints with a talented young safety who can play both free safety and strong safety.
“Justin is a versatile player who can play both safety positions,” said Saints defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen. “He is a ball hawk who has a nose for the football, and he is also a physical player who can provide support in the run game. We are excited to have him on board.”
Reid’s signing is also a testament to the Saints’ commitment to building a strong defense. The team has made several key additions on the defensive side of the ball this offseason, including the signing of defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd and the re-signing of linebacker Demario Davis.
“We are committed to building a strong defense that can compete with the best teams in the league,” said Loomis. “The signing of Justin Reid is a key part of that effort, and we are excited to see him in action.”
Reid, who was drafted by the Chiefs in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, has played in 64 games over the past four seasons, recording 315 tackles, 6 interceptions, and 23 passes defensed. He is known for his ball-hawking skills and his ability to play both safety positions.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Saints and returning home to Louisiana,” said Reid. “I am excited to be a part of this team and to contribute to the defense. I am looking forward to getting started and helping the Saints win games.”
The Saints’ signing of Reid is a major move that should help to strengthen the team’s defense. With Reid on board, the Saints are well-positioned to compete with the best teams in the league.
