Carolina Panthers: Was releasing Eric Reid a mistake?
By Dean Jones
Eric Reid’s time with the Panthers
Eric Reid was a high-profile arrival with the Carolina Panthers in 2018. This came amidst the player’s grievance against the NFL that stated the organization and its owners colluded to prevent employment because of his protest alongside much-maligned Colin Kaepernick.
He received a considerable amount of support during this time from the Panthers, with owner David Tepper and head coach Ron Rivera doing all they could to keep the player happy during his ordeal.
This brought a decent level of production during his first year with the franchise. Reid recorded 71 combined tackles (50 solo), three pass deflections, an interception, and a sack in 2018. He became an assured presence in the secondary and ensured the Panthers’ effort in the player paid off.
He continued this trend during an otherwise disappointing season in Carolina, who finished with a 5-11 record in 2019. Reid’s exemplary tackling was a standout feature of his play throughout the campaign, notching 130 combined and 97 solo takedowns from 16 games.
Reid also achieved a career-high four sacks, a forced fumble, and six pass deflections to further highlight his overall influence on the team.
Given the player’s upward curve and the fact he is still only 28-years-old, Carolina’s parting ways with Reid did raise some eyebrows when the announcement was made.