Colin Kaepernick Congratulates Eric Reid on Panthers Deal

UPDATE: 9/27/18, 1:30 p.m EST 

Colin Kaepernick has taken to Instagram to congratulate former teammate Eric Reid on landing a one-year deal with the Panthers. Check out his well wishes below.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Congratulations to my brother @e_reid35, an all pro safety who should have been signed the first day of free agency, who has signed a football contract. He has was the FIRST person to kneel alongside me. Eric is a social justice warrior, continues to support his wife, two beautiful daughters and communities in need.

A post shared by colin kaepernick (@kaepernick7) on Sep 27, 2018 at 9:36am PDT

Learn more about Reid and his new deal below.

Original Story: 9/27/18, 11:00 a.m. EST

Former San Francisco 49er Eric Reid has found a new home in North Carolina, as the Panthers have just signed the free agent safety to a one-year contract.

The team confirmed the news on their official website, with general manager, Marty Hurney, sharing his confidence in the decision to bring Reid on board.

“Eric has been a starting safety in the NFL and has played at a high level throughout his career. After we put (safety) Da’Norris Searcy on injured reserve, Ron (Rivera) and I discussed our options, and Eric was at the top of our list. He is a physical safety with good ball skills and play-making ability.”

The Louisiana native played for the 49ers his first five seasons in the NFL, earning Pro Bowl and All-Rookie recognition in his first season. Reid started all 16 games for the team and recorded 92 tackles, four interceptions, 11 passes defensed and one fumble recovery. He also started all three playoff games for the 49ers that season, contributing to the team’s NFC Championship game appearance.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Year 5 flew by. Can’t wait to see what year 6 has in store!

A post shared by Eric Reid (@e_reid35) on Jan 4, 2018 at 8:57am PST

As far as career stats, Reid has started 69 of 70 regular season games played, accumulating 375 tackles, 10 interceptions, 34 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Reid’s exceptional skills were always a focal point when debating why it took so long for him to lock down a position this season. Shaun King argues it was his choice to kneel with Colin Kaepernick, as his talent is far too apparent for there to be any other reason.

It’s absolutely outrageous that Eric Reid is not yet on an @NFL roster.

He is one of the top defensive players in the league. He’s young, healthy, and one of the most upstanding men in sports.

He’s CLEARLY being penalized for taking a knee. https://t.co/qcBalPcgR6

— Shaun King (@shaunking) May 2, 2018

Reid and Kaepernick are still good friends who continue to do their part as activist athletes.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

My brother @kaepernick7, a HUGE thank you to you and your team for bringing #KnowYourRightsCamp to New Orleans! It’s always so powerful to witness what you’re doing for our community. To see and feel the energy from the youth because of the inspiration from the camp is even better. I’m honored to be a part of it. @yourrightscamp #Nola (📸 @footcandles)

A post shared by Eric Reid (@e_reid35) on Feb 1, 2018 at 5:57am PST