Jerry Coleman: Getting A Read On Reed
A familiar player will be returning to M&T Bank Stadium on Sunday but in a different uniform. Ed Reed is making his first appearance back in Baltimore since signing a three year-deal that is reportedly $ 15 million, with the Houston Texans this off-season.
Ed Reed on returning to Baltimore
Reed spent 11 excellent years with the Purple and Black where he compiled many milestones. " It is really going to be a special day, with me coming back, Ray going into the Ring of Honor, the Texans playing the Ravens."
Emotions will be running high for the veteran safety but it's still unclear whether or not he will play, despite what it would mean to him and to the city of Baltimore. Even though he will be on the other sideline, he is sure to be welcomed back with a standing ovation. "I don't know what it is going to be. Fans can be tricky. I guess it's all how they're feeling and how the tailgating goes."
Reed certainly had some memorable years and returning as a Raven was about a 50/50 chance because of financial reasons. So it is not a coincidence that Ray Lewis will be honored in the Ravens Ring of Honor when Reed is returning to Baltimore at the same time. "Somebody knew who they were playing and where I was at. This was put together. This was not something that we don't know how this business goes. It was planned that way for a reason." Reed will probably be the next Raven inducted.
Even though many of the Ravens fans wanted him to retire with their team just like Lewis. It is not a sour end for the 35-year old. Reed might be the opponent this weekend, but he will always fondly recall his time in Charm City. "Baltimore is family, he said, "Being a Raven, that's where I was raised in the NFL. I did a lot of growing; we did a lot of special things. That's something that could never be taken away and never will. There's a lot of love there."
