Derick E. Hingle-US PRESSWIRE
During the third quarter of Sunday’s loss to the Denver Broncos, New Orleans Saints’ safety Roman Harper left the game with an injury. Harper sustained a concussion towards the end of the game and did not return to action.
Despite not playing the entire game Harper led the Saints in tackles with nine as the Saints were defeated by the Broncos 34-14. Harper has been a veteran presence for the Saints this season and has been a bright spot for their terrible defense.
Furthermore, Harper is third on the team in total tackles with 52 just three behind fellow safety Malcolm Jenkins. Harper has also recorded one interception for a secondary that has struggled to come up with big plays this season.
As of right now Harper’s status for the week nine matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles is in question. Harper will have to pass concussions tests and be cleared by doctors before he can even return to football activities.
The Saints really cannot afford to lose Harper for an extended period of time since their secondary is one of the worst in the league. Harper is a tough player and great tackler and his presence on the defense gives the Saints something in their lackluster secondary.
I would not be surprised if Harper was held out against the Eagles as the NFL has taken a big stand on player safety in recent years. Furthermore, the Saints have held out other players this season as a result of concussions.
I will keep you updated when more details come out about Harper’s status. However, he has not been evaluated recently so that could be a sign that his concussion might not be that serious. Either way, the Saints could use Harper against the Eagles and turnover-prone quarterback, Michael Vick. The Saints secondary could have a chance to step up this week and make some big plays against Vick.
Alejandro Aviles is the Featured Writer for the New Orleans Saints at Rant Sports @aaviles312
