The teams gathered together at the end of practice.
New England Patriots running back Brandon Bolden (38) runs into New Orleans Saints' Isa Abdul-Quddus as Patriots coach Bill Belichick watches during a joint NFL football practice in Foxborough, Mass., Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012. FOXBOROUGH -- The Patriots and Saints came together in a circle at the end of practice to pay their respects to Garrett Reid, who was recently found dead in a dorm room at the Eagles training camp facilities.
Patriots wide receiver Matthew Slater and Saints kicker John Kasay led the teams in prayer as many players dropped to one knee and bowed their heads.
“It was also letting guys know how we truly are blessed to come out here and play football, no matter how hot it is, and how sore you are,” Saints safety Roman Harper said. “To have the opportunity to try to win a job in the NFL, not everyone gets that opportunity.”
Patriots coach Bill Belichick flew to Reid’s funeral service prior to practice with members of the Saints staff on New Orleans owner Tom Benson’s private jet.
Upon returning, he reiterated his longstanding respect for the Reid family.
“Kind of heavy heart today,” Belichick said. “Just glad I had an opportunity to be there and see (Eagles coach) Andy (Reid) and his family and the Eagle organization. I have a lot of respect for them. … My heart goes out to Andy.”