Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick may never play another snap in the NFL. He’s currently in the midst of a court battle with the NFL, claiming the powers to be have colluded to keep him out of the league.
The same can be said for recently-signed Carolina Panthers safety Eric Reid. In many ways, the former teammates have been tied at this hip since the Kaepernick-led National Anthem protests started back in 2016. After all, Reid is also in the midst of a court battle with the NFL.
A former Pro Bowler, Reid’s signing shocked the NFL world. For some, it was a long time coming. For others, the question about Kaepernick’s unemployment is now front and center.
Immediately after Reid’s signing with the Panthers became official, Kaepernick took to Twitter to congratulate his friend. He also made sure to make a political statement in the process.
Congrats 2 my brother @e_reid35, all pro safety who should have been signed the 1st day of free agency, who has signed a football contract.
He was the 1ST person 2 kneel alongside me. Eric is a social justice warrior, continues to support his family. and communities in need. pic.twitter.com/TsZOaFycYT
— Colin Kaepernick (@Kaepernick7) September 27, 2018
“Congrats 2 my brother @e_reid35, all pro safety who should have been signed the 1st day of free agency, who has signed a football contract,” Kaepernick wrote. “He was the 1ST person 2 kneel alongside me. Eric is a social justice warrior, continues to support his family. and communities in need.”
More so than any other player, Reid has stood by Kaepernick during his battle against social injustice and racial proliferation. To see his best bud sign has to be considered a win.
None of this will impact Kaepernick’s collusion case against the NFL. In fact, Reid’s current legal war with the league will likely continue. But it’s clear that Reid is now the face of protest within the confines of the NFL. Whether he continues it once suiting up for the Panthers remains to be seen.