The Carolina Panthers acquired one of the best defensive backs in the league when they signed Eric Reid, and head coach Ron Rivera is excited about what he brings to the table.
The 26-year-old Reid was a Pro Bowler in 2013, but he was hard-pressed to find a job in the NFL this offseason. NFL team's didn't want to take a chance on Reid, because he kneeled alongside his former San Francisco 49ers teammate Colin Kaepernick during the national anthem protests last season.
Regardless of his stance on social issues, Reid is one of the most talented players in the world. Rivera can't wait to showcase his versatility this season.
“His movement skills were there” Rivera told the Charlotte Observer. “He was covering tight ends. He was running with wide receivers. He gives you an opportunity to have what looks like a safety, but can play in the post. He can play the deep half, or he can play up in the box. With his ability to play in the box, and his skill set to run, you can play him as a big nickel. So it gives us position flexibility with him. He can play strong [safety] or free [safety] as well.”
Ron Rivera knows Eric Reid will be an asset all over the field. It's just a matter of getting him comfortable in a new system.
“Once he learns and understands the feel, I think you get another field general back there with he and Mike [Adams]. I think those two guys will be a pretty formidable group,” said Rivera.
The Panthers had a bye last week, but they'll need to bring energy into their Week 5 matchup with the New York Giants. The team will still need to determine whether or not Reid should start so soon. It helped that the bye week gave him extra time to adjust. Nevertheless, the 2-1 Panthers must perform to keep up with the New Orleans Saints.
The Panthers have the 8th ranked defense in the NFL. With Reid on board, they'll keep pounding their way to a higher spot on the list.
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