Deion Sanders did his best on Saturday to encourage fellow Hall of Famer Ed Reed.

Reed put out a statement on Saturday morning explaining that his contract with Bethune-Cookman would not be ratified, and he wouldn’t be coaching there after all.

After the announcement, Reed held a meeting with current Bethune-Cookman players and recruits to discuss the news. Reed broadcasted the meeting via Instagram Live and became visibly emotional at certain points.

This prompted Sanders to join the call to try and console his friend.

“We talked about this, we know the structure, we know the order, we know how this was gonna play out, and you’ve been there fighting,” said Sanders. “I know what you’re feeling, I know what you’re going through. You’ve got to understand, Ed, God has a time and a place for you brother. And I know your heart, I know everything that’s going on inside of you… and I know how you feel about them kids and I know you do not want to leave those kids.”

Sanders explained that, while it will be the toughest thing Reed has ever had to do, walking away is the best option sometimes. Coach Prime also explained to Reed that he is not to blame for the situation.

“Sometimes, Ed, you’ve got to walk away my brother,” Sanders explained. “I know it’s tough, and I know you don’t want to hear it, but sometimes in life, we gotta walk away. You didn’t let anybody down, Ed, you didn’t let those kids down. You did what you were called to do and you tried your best.”

Reed is passionate about helping kids off the field as well as on the field. Stay tuned to see what Reed’s next move will be.