After three seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, veteran safety Justin Reid is headed to a new home—his third stop in his NFL career.
Reid has agreed to terms with the New Orleans Saints after signing a three-year deal worth up to a reported $31.5 million, according to NFL reporter Adam Schefter.
Reid, who only just turned 28 years old, has been a key piece of Kansas City's defense since signing with the Chiefs in 2022. Reid had big shoes to fill as the Chiefs' big free-agent addition following the departure of Tyrann Mathieu back home to the New Orleans Saints. However, Reid passed such an imposing test with flying colors, providing the Chiefs with reliable play and excellent leadership on and off the field.
It's interesting to mention Mathieu here because Reid is now following the former Chiefs vet in the same sort of homecoming move that Mathieu made before Reid arrived in K.C.
Reid played in 16 games last season for the Chiefs and racked up 87 total tackles, 9 passes deflected, and 2 interceptions in 2024. Steve Spagnuolo’s defense depended upon his skill set and communication in the secondary with so many young players in orbit around Reid.
Given his youth, body of work, talent level, and championship experience. Reid was expected to be one of the top safeties in the open market.
As for the Chiefs, they will move on without Reid hoping for similar results from the safety crop after having gone through the loss of another veteran leader in Mathieu. Bryan Cook is returning in his final season, and Jaden Hicks is set for more playing time in his second year. Chamarri Conner is also a candidate to play a larger role at safety after struggling a bit as a slot corner. The Chiefs also have Deon Bush and Nazeeh Johnson, among others, competing for reps as well.