Seymour Reid's Homegrown contract with NYCFC was unexpected | OneFootball

On Tuesday, New York City FC announced they have signed Seymour Reid to a Homegrown contract. Originally, the forward was signed to a contract with NYCFC II, and it would turn into a Homegrown contract in 2026. As such, the move is a little surprising, especially since the team said he would occupy an Off-Roster Homegrown spot.

In other words, Reid cannot regularly be with the first team's matchday roster. However, it does expand the ability for NYCFC to call him up for short-term contracts. The Pigeons can now call him up a maximum of six times in Major League Soccer compared to the MLS Next Pro's four. Then, he can be called up an unlimited number of times in other competitions, which could be helpful in the Leagues Cup.

NYCFC changes Seymour Reid's contract

With that in mind, it makes a little sense that the club adjusted his deal. Again, it is still somewhat shocking, as his contract would have transitioned into a first-team one for next year. But NYCFC values Reid enough to make the slight adjustment.

Sporting Director David Lee expressed to newyorkcityfc.com the purpose of his signing. "We felt it was the right time to execute Seymour’s Homegrown contract ahead of schedule as a reward for his development and production," he said. "This move also allows Seymour to be available for more MLS matches, giving us additional roster flexibility. Seymour is another strong example of the developmental pathway we have in place in New York City, and we’re excited to continue working with him to maximize his full potential."

This does slightly improve NYCFC's depth, which is something they have lacked. Still, Reid is young and a new professional. It is unknown whether he can have a meaningful impact, especially with his limitations to play in MLS this season.

In addition, as a scorer, he has seven goals with NYCFC II. This includes a hat-trick he had in the MLS Next Pro Hudson River Derby. Plus, the deal will still see him play more with the Baby Pigeons. It improves the roster flexibility, as Lee said, but also reduces the pressure on Reid, for he will be listed as an Off-Roster Homegrown.

Nevertheless, while the move was unexpected, NYCFC probably realized they needed a Band-Aid on their issue with roster depth. It is a small one, but ideally it will help the team. Moreover, it will be nice to see Reid a few more times this season.