It was bound to happen. The longer we went in the offseason without former Pro Bowl safety Eric Reid being signed, the more likely it became that he would in fact follow in Colin Kaepernick’s steps and file a collusion case against the NFL.
That time is now. Still unsigned, the 26-year-old former first-round pick is indeed claiming the NFL has colluded to keep him out of the league following his role in the National Anthem protests.
Source: Former 49ers safety Eric Reid has filed a collusion grievance against the NFL. Reid's attorney is Mark Geragos, who's also represented Colin Kaepernick. https://t.co/8MaBD0cC0k
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) May 2, 2018
Much like we’re seeing in Kaepernick’s ongoing suit against the league, the NFLPA fully supports Reid’s case.
“Our union is aware Eric Reid and his representatives filed a collusion claim, which will be heard through the arbitration process as spelled out in our (CBA). Our union supports Eric and we are considering other legal options to pursue,” the union said in a statement Wednesday.
Part of Kaepernick’s case stems from the fact that quarterbacks who are perceived much less talented and accomplished have signed with NFL teams while he remains a free agent.
That’s going to be a harder sell for Reid. He’s missed 10 games to injury the past two seasons and has seen his overall game take a step back since jumping on to the scene as a Pro Bowler back in 2013 and 2014.
Though, the status of fellow safety Kenny Vaccaro as a free agent could help in the case. Remember, he joined Kaepernick and Reid in the protests starting back in September of 2017.