It was always a dream for Ascension Parish native safety Justin Reid to play for the New Orleans Saints.
Reid comes to New Orleans after playing seven NFL seasons and spending the last three with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he played in three Super Bowls, winning two of them.
Reid had plenty of options for where to go next, with seven or eight teams interested to start free agency. It all came down to the Philadelphia Eagles, Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints. Reid ultimately picked the Saints, agreeing to a three-year contract.
“I grew up watching the Saints. Everyone remembers 2008, 2009,” Reid said. “What that feeling, what that did for the entire state of Louisiana. Every kid in Louisiana dreams about playing for the Saints. And as you go through this journey, you don’t know if it’s going to happen or not. But had an opportunity to make that dream come true. I just can’t tell you how excited I am about it.
Reid’s family was a factor in his return to the Boot. He said when he wrote in the family group chat that it was a possibility he could sign with the Saints, the chat blew up with encouragement for him to come home.
His family was out in full force at his introductory press conference, showing their support. That includes his older brother, Eric, who played for both LSU and in the NFL.
“It’s a great feeling to be able to be close to family and to be able to do what you love, what’s your life goal, what your life’s passion is, and be able to do it with the loved ones around you at the same time,” he said.
Reid said he still has love for Kansas City and its culture.
“I’m so proud of everything that I did there the last three years. It’s just that there comes a time in this business where even if both sides want something, there just isn’t a match that can happen in a scenario,” he said.
Next, he’s excited to put on the Black and Gold shoulder pads and helmet.
“I know what it means to this city to play for the Saints, and what having a winning organization means for everyone in Louisiana, and that’s extremely motivating to do everything we can to bring back that winning culture because we have the talent,” he said.
