In a rare and impressive moment at Saints training camp, the play of the day emerged from an often-overlooked field goal drill. During what is typically a routine extra point attempt by kicker Charlie Smyth, safety Justin Reid exploded off the right edge to block the kick. The impact was so forceful that the sound echoed like a thunderclap throughout the facility, drawing an audible reaction from the large crowd in attendance.
The play was no fluke for Reid, who has established a reputation as a kick-blocking specialist throughout his NFL career. His success stems from meticulous preparation, including close study of snap counts and long snapper movements. This attention to detail previously led to a blocked 38-yard field goal attempt against then-Broncos kicker Wil Lutz while Reid was with the Kansas City Chiefs, and he recorded another block during his time with the Houston Texans.
What makes Reid truly unique, however, is his remarkable versatility. Beyond his ability to disrupt kicks, he has also handled kicking duties himself, stepping in to manage both kickoffs and extra points in backup and starting roles. His capacity to kick, cover, and make tackles solidifies his status as one of the most dynamic and valuable special teams players in the NFL.
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