Joining NFL Network’s “Good Morning Football” crew, two-time Super Bowl champion Justin Reid gave fans a clear look into what motivated his move to the New Orleans Saints — and it wasn’t just about football. For Reid, this next chapter is about home, legacy, and helping restore the energy that once surrounded the franchise.
The 28-year-old safety signed a three-year, $30.5 million deal ($22.25 million guaranteed) with the Saints on March 12. Reid hitting the market after back-to-back championship seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs wasn’t a shock.
What did turn heads was his choice. Why New Orleans?
Justin Reid’s Return Home Fueled by Pride, Drive to Revive ‘Who Dat’ Glory
“I’m a Louisiana kid, I grew up on the Saints,” Reid told GMFB. That connection to his roots was enough of a reason for the move. But there’s more to it. Reid took the audience back to a core memory that’s stuck with him. “I remember what 2009 was like for the entire state. I have friends that have dedicated enshrinements to that moment.”
Reid was in high school when the Saints made their Super Bowl run, and it left an indelible mark. “I want to get back to that,” he said. “I want to hear the ‘Who Dat’ chants in the crowd. I want to be in that stadium. I want to win games.”
"I'm a Louisiana kid, I grew up on the @Saints" @JustinqReid on why he choose to return home pic.twitter.com/uHbsITU7eo
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) April 10, 2025
Reid said he’s ready to lead and wants to set the tone with how the team carries itself on and off the field. “Make the community, the city, and the entire state proud of the product that we’re putting out on the field,” he said.
He also praised the direction the Saints are heading under their new staff. Reid said he’s “so excited to add that culture,” and the energy in his interview backed it up. He shouted out Kellen Moore specifically, saying he’s excited to “get things done” with the new offensive coordinator.
Reid Believes in Kellen Moore’s Vision as Saints Rebuild
Reid also gave a vote of confidence to head coach Kellen Moore, saying he believes in the team’s direction. “I’m so excited to add to that culture and get things done with Kellen Moore and that new revamped offense and new revamped defense that we’re going to have coming into this season with [defensive coordinator] Brandon Staley,” he said.
The Saints finished 22nd in offense and 19th in defense last season, but they still have needs to address. Guard is one of them after Lucas Patrick signed with the Bengals. Their offensive line ranked 23rd in PFSN’s OL+ metrics, and inconsistency plagued the group all year. The front office is expected to target help in the draft, but Reid already sees something to build on in New Orleans.