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S Roman Harper, New Orleans Saints

HT: 6-1, WT: 191, Born: 12-11-1982, College: Alabama, Drafted: Round 2

2008 Projections

Best Case

Harper established himself as one of the most attractive young IDP options at DB last year, continuing the pace he set as a rookie before tearing an ACL in Week 5 of 2006. Now another year removed from that injury, Harper may increase his range and production more. Harper's 75 solo tackle ability and knack for denting the big play columns with sacks and coverage stats could get him back into the top five overall safeties again this year.

Worst Case

Harper's flaws are few at this point. But he'll have to contend with a much more efficient and productive MLB this season in Jonathan Vilma, which could hurt his tackle numbers and increase his week-to-week variability in the box scores. Though it didn't hurt him last season, the Saints could make good on their promise to work in third safety Kevin Kaesviharn into a rotation this year. That would also limit his opportunity. If a healthy Vilma keeps him from the ball often enough, Harper's tackle stats could drop enough to leave him outside the top ten safeties this year.

Outlook

Harper isn't likely to push 80 solos this season with the overall improvement in the Saints' defense. But he's active enough in the box and has proven that he can consistently generate big plays. That should keep him consistent enough to trust as a DB1 option and prevent him from dropping completely off the top safeties list despite the improvement in surrounding cast.

Writeups last modified: 2008-05-03 06:41:18