ESPN.com columnist Matt Vasgersian discusses the controversial comments made by Cleveland Browns safety Eric Reid about the media and how they’ve affected the team’s offseason plans.1.
Reid says he doesn’t have to be afraid to speak his mind on social media: Reid has since apologized for his comments.
The Cleveland Browns cornerback said on “Inside the NFL” that he was referring to the media, specifically ESPN and the national media.
“It’s hard to make a comment like that if you don’t know what the hell you’re talking about,” Reid said.
“When you’re on the sideline you know what it is.
If you’re off the sideline and you don’ know what’s going on, then it’s really hard to be an adult and be that serious.”2.
It’s hard not to get emotional after watching NFL games: Reid was referencing a recent incident where he was arrested during a game.
The cornerback said he was trying to break up a fight between teammates when he was pushed into the back of the stands.
After the arrest, Reid was placed on administrative leave.3.
The Browns still have a long way to go in the offseason: Reid said he doesn’ have a timeline for the team to be ready for the 2018 NFL season.
The team has to complete a full roster overhaul before signing free agents, so Reid is optimistic that the team can get it done.4.
The biggest question mark heading into the 2018 season: Reid admitted he was still unsure about his role on the Browns defense.
The rookie said he wants to be a “starting player,” but has to be careful with his words.
He also wants to have a say in the scheme.
“I just want to be part of the building,” Reid told reporters during a press conference Monday.
“I’m trying to get into the building.
I’m not trying to be the leader of the defense.”5.
Reid could be on the chopping block: The Browns are reportedly looking to free up $4 million in cap space by releasing defensive end/outside linebacker Kony Ealy and defensive tackle DeShawn Williams.
Reid has been the Browns most important player all season, but he’s likely to be released.
The two could be a good match in free agency.6.
Reid doesn’t want to have to sit out another game: Reid wants to get back on the field, but not just for one week.
Reid is hoping to start at cornerback in the season opener against the Oakland Raiders, but that’s a longshot.
“If I can’t be part, I’d rather be with a good team,” Reid added.7.
The injury bug will not bother Reid: Reid is currently out of the game with a foot injury, but said he’s “not worried about it.”
The cornerback has a history of concussions, so he won’t want the distraction of missing a game to affect his play.8.
Reid believes the Browns need to find a way to win without him: The cornerback doesn’t believe he has to play in order to win, and believes he can help in other ways.
“For me, winning is just one of the things that I really want to do,” Reid explained.
“You’ve got to get the win, but I think there’s a lot of things that go into winning and winning a championship, and if you can get the wins that you need and win them on a consistent basis and not be like last year, then I think you can have success.”9.
Reid expects to be back in action for the Browns next season: The veteran cornerback believes he’ll be back on field in time for the start of the 2018 campaign.
“It’s something that I have to do, but it’s something I’m trying not to think about,” he said.
