In a significant move this Tuesday, former Kansas City Chiefs safety Justin Reid agreed to a three-year, $31.5 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, which includes $22.25 million fully guaranteed. The agreement, confirmed by a source to ESPN's Adam Schefter, marks a strategic addition to the Saints' defense as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming NFL season. Reid, a native of Prairieville, Louisiana, returns to his home state, joining an experienced safety lineup alongside Tyrann Mathieu and Jordan Howden.
Reid's career in Kansas City was marked by his versatility and defensive prowess. As a full-time starter over three seasons, he recorded three interceptions, four sacks, and 265 tackles across 51 regular-season games. Moreover, he contributed significantly to the Chiefs' special teams by handling 16 kickoffs over the 2022 and 2024 seasons. His playoff performances were equally commendable, with 1.5 sacks in 10 games contributing to two championship victories.
Before his tenure with the Chiefs, Reid spent four seasons with the Houston Texans. Drafted in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft from Stanford, he made an immediate impact with seven interceptions and two sacks. His transition to Kansas City as a free agent in 2022 further showcased his adaptability and skill.
Reid's return to Louisiana comes as part of broader strategic moves by the Saints, who have been actively restructuring their roster to manage salary cap constraints. General Manager Mickey Loomis highlighted during the NFL scouting combine that the team intended to be proactive in the free-agent market. As a result, the Saints have restructured contracts for key players such as quarterback Derek Carr and defensive end Carl Granderson, among others.
The Saints' off-season activities reflect their commitment to building a competitive team under new head coach Kellen Moore. The hiring of Louisiana native Terry Joseph as defensive pass game coordinator further underscores their focus on strengthening their defense. Additionally, the Saints have secured agreements with defensive end Chase Young, tight end Juwan Johnson, and wide receiver Dante Pettis, while also acquiring Davon Godchaux from the New England Patriots.
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