I like Cris Carter. In fact, unlike most people I know, I pretty much like everyone on HBO’s Inside the NFL.
But I couldn’t help but shudder a little when I heard Carter’s commentary regarding Andy Reid’s current family problems. Did he forget that the Philadelphia Eagles cut him because of drug and alcohol problems? Yes, he went on to have a brilliant career with the Minnesota Vikings but in the thick of some potentially career ending problems, Carter did not have the self-awareness to remove himself from professional football. He didn’t miss a year in fact, and he went on to prosper in the league. I found it a little hypocritical for him to pass judgement on Andy Reid’s parenting ability, when ultimately his own recovery came from self-inherence.
Many parents in America go through problems with their children. Very few take time away from work to address these problems. Andy Reid’s children are adults. Their behavior has been selfish, irresponsible and self-destructive. I don’t believe that any judge, reporter or analysts who chooses to lay the blame for this type of behavior squarely at the feet of any adults’ parents would be acting responsibly. Anyone who feels entitled to some information or commentary from Andy Reid is nosey, self-righteous and melodramatic. Any individual has a right to keep their family matters as private as they choose. I’m not completely surprised by the level of righteous indignation that these issues have been greeted with. I can’t help but believe that many reporters are harboring a grudge against Reid, who has been notoriously tight-lipped with the media on all subjects inluding football. Some of the negativity is just out and out spiteful. Saying that anyone is 0-2 as a parent is seems particularly vindictive. I would very much doubt that Reid would refer to his son’s as losses.
The first step of any 12 step program involves accepting personal responsibility and powerlessness over substance abuse. It is great to have a family that you can lean on for support, but Reid can’t turn his house into Gitmo. By walking away from what is undoubtedly his dream job, he takes the risk of letting these drug problems overpower one more life.
