LSU fans keeping an eye on former Tiger safety Eric Reid's pro career will see him suit up for the 49ers against the Saints Sunday, if he has anything to say about it.
Reid suffered his second concussion of the NFL season last Sunday, but he practiced this week for the 49ers, symptom free.
Reid does need to pass a light-contact test that's part of the NFL's new concussion protocol, but Reid says there's no way he's not playing in his big homecoming game.
"This is my dream. It's been what I've been wanting to do for a long time," Reid said. "So as long as I feel fine, and the doctors tell me I can play, I'm going to play."
Reid is from Baton Rouge, attended Dutchtown High School and went on to play three seasons as an LSU Tiger. Reid's last season at LSU was in 2012, when he was a consensus All-American after starting all 13 games, finishing third on the team in tackles with 91, plus adding two interceptions and seven pass breakups.
"I've been looking forward to this one for awhile. That's my home state," Reid said. "I've been watching Drew Brees and those guys for a long time. This is part of my dream to get to play in that stadium against Drew Brees and the Saints. Hopefully I can do my part and help get a win."
Reid is a self described Saints fan - at least up until the moment the 49ers drafted him. He says it will be surreal to try and stop an offense he's been cheering on for so many years.
"They can throw the ball. I know very well they can do that," Reid said. "I remember watching the Super Bowl at my house when they won it, and it's a powerful offense - an explosive offense."
San Francisco traded up 13 spots to be able to snag Reid in the first round of the 2013 draft, with the 18th pick.
Reid was actually holding out hope he'd become a member of the Black and Gold - until the Saints chose Texas safety Kenny Vaccaro with the 15th pick - just three spots before San Francisco took Reid.
"Upset? Mmm: it's just the way it is," Reid said. "I did hold me breathe for a little bit, I won't lie. That's my home state. But after that happened, I was looking for the next team. I'm very grateful the 49ers picked me."
San Francisco's defensive coordinator Vic Fangio described Reid as an instant boost to the 49ers defensive backfield, with his size and intelligence. Reid, who had a 3.2 GPA at LSU, takes copious notes - something that impressed veteran 49ers safety Donte Whitner right away. Fangio says Reid's most promising trait though is that he learns from his mistakes, never making the same one twice.
