July 23, 2012; Bethlehem, PA. USA; A general view of a sign prior to Philadelphia Eagles training camp at Lehigh University. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
The Philadelphia Eagles have issued multiple statements following the news that head coach Andy Reid’s son, Garrett, had steroids in his room at LeHigh University when he died of a heroin overdose. The problem for the Eagles is that LeHigh University is the location of their training camp.
Luckily for the Eagles organization, Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli said the police did not receive enough evidence to suggest anyone from the Eagles was involved.
However, that hasn’t stopped the the Eagles from issuing a statement following the news.
“The news today on Garrett Reid’s possession of steroids is disappointing,” Lurie said. “It’s clear the conduct in which he apparently engaged runs counter to the values and principles mandated for everyone associated with our organization. We have spoken with the league office and have pledged our full cooperation with their requests should there be any. While we remained saddened by the tragic end of a young man’s life and know how hard this must be for the entire Reid family, we are extremely confident that Garrett’s actions were unknown to those around him and did not involve our football team.
“The NFL has a rigorous drug testing program for its players. It is a matter of record that none of our players has tested positive for any of the steroids mentioned in the district attorney’s report.”
While there is no connection to a member of the Eagles organization and the steroids in Garrett Reid’s room, it is still not a good look for the organization.
Head coach Andy Reid also released a statement on the news.
“Today’s report saddens me greatly, but only confirms the troubles Garrett encountered in the final years of his life,” Reid said. “As parents, we were encouraged by his apparent progress but, like many addicts, he was able to conceal the signs of relapse.
“Jeffrey Lurie, the Eagles organization and the people of Philadelphia have been remarkably supportive of my family throughout our ordeal. I am confident that my son’s decisions did not affect our football team in any way. I cannot apologize enough for any adverse appearances that my son’s actions may have for an organization and a community that has been nothing but supportive of our family.”
It is sad to see new like this surrounding Garrett Reid’s death. It is hard enough for Andy Reid to deal with the death of his troubled son and these reports make it that much harder to grieve.