San Francisco 49ers: 5 players who could possibly be moved at the NFL trade deadline
By Peter Panacy
No. 3: Safety Eric Reid
The defensive line and safety positions are, perhaps, the only two spots on San Francisco’s roster where there is a bit of an excess commodity.
Like Aaron Lynch, veteran safety Eric Reid is finishing up the final year of his rookie contract. He’ll be a free agent after this season, and it wouldn’t be a shocker to see the Niners move on and let him sign elsewhere.
Especially after his backup, Jaquiski Tartt, who has been filling in for the injured Reid (knee), has performed well at the strong safety position.
Jaquiski Tartt with an excellent tackle for a loss. Again, he could replace Eric Reid as a starter in 2018. #49ers #SFvsAZ
— Peter Panacy (@PeterPanacy) October 1, 2017
Despite the injury, Reid’s value as a Cover 3 strong safety has certainly increased his trade value. Teams looking for some added thump from the secondary within the box might be enticed to make a deal for Reid — perhaps dishing out a mid-round pick or underused player in exchange.
Why a Trade Makes Sense
If Tartt continues to show an ability to regularly play the strong safety position, Reid becomes something of an excess commodity.
And with the Niners in full rebuild mode, it would certainly be wise to get something in return for a player who likely departs in free agency anyway.
Why It Doesn’t
Again, the whole issue of players in contract years comes into play. Plus, Reid has a history of injuries, which makes the possibility of a long-term contract elsewhere seem less feasible.
Additionally, Reid has already emerged as one of the leaders within San Francisco’s budding defense. If general manager John Lynch views this as a valuable asset, Reid’s value might be more important in San Francisco than initially thought.
Hence the possibility of him re-signing.