The San Francisco 49ers are following the trend set by fellow NFC West teams, moving former strong safety Eric Reid to linebacker to better fit their scheme and provide more flexibility.
The Los Angeles Rams and Arizona Cardinals have had success shifting former safeties Mark Barron and Deone Bucannon, respectively.
Reid is in the final year of his contract and is willing to do what the team asks so he can best contribute.
"This is my contract year, so when they broke the news to me, I wondered what the reasoning was to make the move," Reid said Thursday, according to Cam Inman of Mercury News. "They were open and honest with me, and told me they really believe it’s best for the team and I can really excel at the position."
Reid was concerned about assuming a new position with no contract security, but after speaking with head coach Kyle Shanahan and general manager John Lynch, the veteran understands it is in his best interest to give it his all.
"I asked them explicitly, 'Can you at least tell me if I’m going to be here next year to play this position?' They told me no," Reid said. "Right now I just trust the film I have at safety is good enough to enter free agency with, and now I’ll get some film at linebacker, as well."
The move comes after the 49ers released former starting middle linebacker NaVorro Bowman following rookie Reuben Foster's return from injury. Reid was injured for three games this season and saw Jaquiski Tartt fill the spot with some success, compelling the 49ers to experiment with moving the veteran to a new position.
Reid will compete with Ray-Ray Armstrong for the starting weak-side linebacker spot, and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh "wouldn't be surprised" if he wins the job.
