Andy Reid back at work with Eagles days after son’s death

Andy Reid returned to work Wednesday, the day after the funeral of his 29-year-old son, Garrett. The Philadelphia Eagles coach told reporters it was “the right thing to do.”

“My son wouldn’t want it any other way,” Reid said. “He loved the Philadelphia Eagles.”

Garrett Reid, who had battled drug addiction and had served time in prison and halfway houses, was found dead Sunday morning in his dorm room at Lehigh University where he was serving as an assistant to the Eagles’ strength and conditioning coach at training camp.

An investigation into the cause of death is continuing, but a statement released by the Eagles on behalf of the Reid family and signed by Andy Reid indicated drugs may have played a role.

“Garrett’s road through life was not always an easy one,” the statement said. “He faced tremendous personal challenges with bravery and spirit. As a family, we stood by him and were inspired as he worked to overcome those challenges. Even though he lost the battle that has been ongoing for the last eight years, we will always remember him as a fighter who had a huge, loving heart.”

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and several general managers, coaches and players were among the 900 people who attended the funeral service Tuesday.

“The outpouring was incredible,” Reid said. “It builds comfort, builds strength in your family.”

Reid also said he and his wife, Tammy, “understand Garrett’s at peace and in good hands.”

And now Reid says it’s time to go back to work. In addition to holding a team meeting Tuesday and attending practice Wednesday, Reid intends to coach the Eagles in their first preseason game Thursday against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“I’m a football coach,” he said. “That’s what I do.”

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MCT Regional News and the Associated Press contributed to this report.