Andy Reid: Eagles Coach Shows Resilience by Returning to Team on Wednesday

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid is a brave man for being able to overcome the loss of his son, attend the funeral and return to training camp to resume his duties all within a three-day period.

Garrett Reid, Andy’s oldest son, was found dead on Sunday, and a funeral service was held for the 29-year-old on Tuesday. The coach found that the best way to cope with this all is to keep things as normal as possible, according to a report by The Sports Xchange (via Sports Illustrated).

As Reid said Wednesday, "I'm a football coach. It's what I do. ... I know that coming back and coaching is the right thing to do."

He talked openly about his son’s addiction and stated that he was finally defeated in a battle that was comparable to fighting a bear.

"It's hard to win," Reid said.

Fortunately for Reid, his football friends and family are there to support him. Before he returned to the Eagles, owner Jeff Lurie stated to The Sports Xchange (via Yahoo! Sports), "I think what you'll see from Andy is that desire to be around another loving extended family."

Reid has been atop the organization since 1999 and is currently the longest-tenured NFL head coach. He’s led the Eagles to many great playoff runs, but a Super Bowl victory has eluded him.

Mike Vick and the rest of the Philadelphia roster are going to dedicate this upcoming season to Garrett and will personally do their best on the gridiron to honor their coach and his son’s memory.

It’s admirable that he is going to be there for them—as they will be for him—so soon after such a horrible tragedy.