Ed Reed calls himself a “park baby” because of the role that parks played in his life when he was growing up in New Orleans. Among other things, they helped him in the early stages of his journey to a legendary career in football. He’s a hall of famer at the high school, college and pro levels. His time at the University of Miami earned him a place in fans’ hearts as an all-time great Hurricane and his NFL career — most of which he played with the Baltimore Ravens — cemented his place in history as a legendary safety. Some say he’s the best to ever do it.

Now, he’s back in Miami with a new job as Hurricane football’s chief of staff. And he’s giving back to kids who grew up like he did through the Ed Reed Foundation. Mike got into it all with Ed over a meal and cigars at Ariete.

As soon as we wrapped up the interview, we had Ed Reed sign a football, which auctioned off to benefit the Ed Reed Foundation.