Eric Reid: Former NFL Player
Eric Reid is a former NFL safety who played for a total of seven seasons. At the collegiate level, he played for Louisiana State University and advanced to be selected as a first-round pick by the San Francisco 49ers. Reid is widely known for his participation in the National Anthem protest. However, many have not heard the full story. We were grateful to welcome Eric Reid on episode 42 of our Catch The Moment podcast to discuss his football career and how his decision and commitment to kneeling during the anthem changed his life.
Reid’s performance on the field has been overlooked since his actions during the protest. Undoubtedly, he was a leader on the field as a safety, with his statistics and achievements to prove it. His role as a leader throughout the National Anthem protest allowed him to be noticed in a different light. With Colin Kaepernick being the catalyst of the protest, it was Reid’s idea to take a more respectful approach to their societal concerns and kneel rather than sit during the National Anthem. Reid emphasized his intentions by sharing, “I thought it was an opportunity that I could be a voice to people who weren’t being heard. People [...] who would have these encounters with police officers, and they would get covered up.” Even with pure intentions and a respectful stance, Reid explains how other public figures, the media, and the NFL responded negatively to his actions.
Social media immediately shared their opinions on Reid and other players, which included the use of derogatory names. The most impactful reaction to the protest was made by former President, Donald Trump. “He called us SOBs…Now we have owners who don’t want to see the protest happen anymore because the president of the United States is threatening them with taxes or something.” Reid also came face to face with the newly formed Player’s Coalition and NFL owners, leading to a rise in disagreement. Following this, an altercation on the field occurred with Reid and another player. Even while dealing with offensive responses to the protest, Reid expressed his confidence and determination to do what he believed he needed to do for a cause bigger than himself.
Reid’s involvement in the National Anthem protest was not respected by many people. He was only hoping to do what felt right, and it cost him opportunities within his career, including being signed to the Cincinnati Bengals. After being released from the Carolina Panthers in 2020, Reid has found peace through his relationship with his family and God. Even with the backlash he received, he believes he did what was right after receiving confirmation through the statement, “God is looking for a quality person, not a quantity of people.” Listen to the full episode with Eric Reid to learn how one kneel shifted the course of his career.