Eric Reid Signs with Carolina Panthers, Back in NFL After Protests

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Eric Reid is getting another shot in the NFL. The Carolina Panthers on Thursday have signed the free agent safety to a one-year contract. Terms of the deal were not announced.

Reid filed an official grievance letter with the NFL in October of 2017, alleging that team owners and the league colluded to prevent his employment due to his protest activities. Reid, along with quarterback Colin Kaepernick, participated in protests during the playing of the national anthem before NFL games to highlight social awareness and racial injustice.

Panthers general manager Marty Hurney said he wasn't concerned about Reid's past protests, telling The Associated Press it was a "football decision" — and one that was approved by new owner David Tepper.

Tepper bought the team from Jerry Richardson this past summer.

Kaepernick has offered congratulations on Twitter to his former teammate, saying Reid is a "social justice warrior (who) continues to support his family and communities in need." He said Reid was the first person who knelt alongside him for the national anthem, which was done to highlight racial and social injustice.

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