Free agent safety Eric Reid declined an offer to join the Washington Football Team’s practice squad, according to Rob Maaddi of the Associated Press.
Washington placed safety Landon Collins on injured reserve with a season-ending Achilles injury. Collins will undergo surgery on Monday. In a corresponding move, safety Jeremy Reaves was signed to the 53-man active roster from the practice squad.
ESPN’s John Keim reported Tuesday morning, Washington was considering the 28-year old Reid as the team searches for a replacement for Collins.
Reid played the last two seasons with the Carolina Panthers under Ron Rivera, who is now Washington’s head coach. He recorded 130 tackles, six passes defensed, four sacks, a force fumble and two fumble recoveries in 16 games in 2019.
“I don’t think playing on the practice squad is reflective or indicative of my career,” Reid told the Associated Press Tuesday via ESPN.
Reid was told Washington wants to start rookie Kamren Curl in place of Collins for the time being.
Reid appeared to be a good match for Washington given his scheme fit and familiarity with Rivera. Reid spent five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers after being drafted in the first round in 2013.
He has played in 99 games, recording 45 passes defensed, six sacks, five fumble recoveries and three forced fumbles in seven seasons in the NFL.
Rivera praised Reid last month for being “a heck of a teammate,” adding if Washington didn’t believe in Collins at strong safety, he’d called Reid.
However, the timing and situation appears not to be a fit for Reid. He is looking for a spot on a team’s active roster not practice squad at this point in his career. Washington, who has a 2-5 record, wants to take a look at their young safety.
Curl has been impressive as a nickel safety for Washington this season. Now, he’ll get an opportunity to show his abilities as a strong safety.
