The second day of OTAs showcased more talent from the Kansas City Chiefs roster as the coaching staff got an up-close look at some new additions.
One of the prized free-agent signings this offseason was safety Justin Reid who begins his tenure in Kansas City after spending the past four seasons with the Houston Texans. He’s joining a defensive system that’s unlike anything he had experienced in Houston. Steve Spagnuolo’s formations and style seem quick-fitting for Reid, as he discussed during Thursday’s press conference after Day 2 at OTAs.
“I think it’s because the defense is so versatile,” Reid said. “And not only do we have like 100 plays that we’re able to just game plan and pick and choose which weapons we want to use against opponents coming into the future, but also taking advantage of opportunities like this, where we get to play against our offense, which is not undoubtedly one of the most firepower set offenses in the league. So we get to play against those guys every day. Iron sharpening iron, it makes the whole team better.”
Reid started all 13 games he played last season for the Texans finishing with 75 tackles and two sacks. After just a short period of time, Reid feels he’s connecting with this new defensive system on a different level than any previous system he’d been in.
“I love it, man. It’s electric, his defense,” Reid said. “We’ve got guys coming from all over the place. Coverage spinning in different directions. This is undoubtedly going to be the most fun defense that I’ve played in so far.”
Entering his fifth NFL season, Reid accepts the responsibility of being a veteran in the room. He knows that he is someone that young players will lean on, especially when it comes to learning the playbook.
“The playbook here is very deep,” Reid said. “And it was deeper than what it was when I was a rookie back in Houston. And those guys are coming along really well with it. The culture here is really good in the DB room. Guys ask questions. We’re not afraid to go and help each other. The unity is there. And like I said, Trent (McDuffie), Josh (Williams), Bryan(Cook), all those guys are doing a great job.”
The Chiefs will need to have their new acquisitions up to speed in the secondary quickly to help solidify an area that gave up big plays last year. Reid will have a big role in the success of that group by executing plays and leading by example for the rookies.
