Chargers Claim Former Lions’ DT Caraun Reid Off Waivers

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Credit: Detroit Lions
Credit: Detroit Lions

The San Diego Chargers claimed DT Caraun Reid (Detroit Lions) off waivers. He’s considered a surprise cut by many and looks to have been a victim of depth at his position.

Reid (6-2, 298) was the Lion’s fifth round draft pick in 2014. He got around 110 snaps in 12 regular season games that year, totaling a combined two tackles and a pass deflection.

In 2015, after a strong offseason in which he lost weight and worked out with Ndamukong Suh, he was in the race for the starting spot next to Haloti Ngata. Unfortunately, a high ankle sprain suffered in the second preseason game hampered him the rest of the season.

Playing through the ankle injury he still saw an increase in snaps to around 530. He was on the field in 14 games, a starter in 12, and finished his second season with 29 tackles and two sacks. In January of this year he underwent a minor ankle surgery.

Game tape shows he has the strength and technique to break through double teams, the speed to rush the passer (he has a signature over-arm swim move), good awareness, the ability to clog lanes and tie up blockers, defeat his guy to disrupt plays from behind, and a high motor who will not give up in pursuit.

In Detroit he mostly played the 3-technique, but he also had snaps at the 0 and 1-technique spot. With his weight and athleticism he could potentially also play at the 5-technique. Short term – at least until Bosa has properly settled – this would make a lot of sense, given the Chargers current depth at DE. If necessary, he could also function as a rotation for Mebane.

Caraun Reid is a young, versatile defensive lineman who showed great development in Detroit, suffered a setback due to a high ankle sprain, but he’s healthy now and the potential is still there. On top of that, he has a great work ethic, something we know the team likes (and looks for) in a player. So, it’s not a surprise they reached out to get him.

Additionally, the Chargers claimed RB Andre Williams (Giants) and CB Pierre Desir (Browns). To make room on the roster, the team waived CB Steve Williams, TE Asante Cleveland and OLB Chris Landrum.

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