Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback and social activist Colin Kaepernick recently claimed that he wasn't the only player being left out to dry by the NFL. His former 49ers teammate, safety Eric Reid, was also left unsigned after his last stint with the Carolina Panthers back in 2019 and currently remains to be a free agent.
“While the NFL runs propaganda about how they care about Black Life, they are still actively blackballing Eric Reid . . . for fighting for the Black community,” Kaepernick said Sunday on Twitter. “Eric set 2 franchise records last year, and is one of the best defensive players in the league.”
Reid was protesting along with Colin Kaepernick during the 2016 NFL season. The two have also been collaborating to address social justice issues and help communities and people in need. Back in May 2018, Reid filed an official grievance letter with the NFL alleging that team owners and the league, influenced by President Donald Trump, colluded to prevent his employment due to his protest activities.
Reid was the second NFL player after Colin Kaepernick to participate in U.S. national anthem protests intended to highlight social awareness and racial injustice towards black people. He continued his kneeling protests during his time with the Carolina Panthers from 2018 to 2019.
On the field, the safety from LSU was a member of the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 2013 and became a Pro Bowler in 2014. He tallied a total of 519 total tackles, 6.0 sacks, and 11 interceptions through 7 seasons played in the league. At the age of 28, Reid can still be a contributor and provide a boost to any team's secondary.
The following weeks will see if Kaepernick's public endorsement for Reid can help the Louisiana native make his comeback on the gridiron.
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