Darren Sharper claims that his knee is now “110%” and that he’s ready to come back and play football for another season. I’m never going to be one to doubt Sharper after the season he had with us in 2009. I have zero doubts that if he’s healthy he can come back and play at a much higher level than he did last season.
But do the Saints even want him back?
At this point, Malcolm Jenkins is firmly entrenched as the starter at free safety. At this point in his career, Sharper will come on the cheap to anyone that gets him. He knows he’s not going to land a ridiculous contract, and based on a shaky season last year he’ll need to prove he can still be productive.
The main thing question is – do the Saints want him back as a backup? I’m not even sure the answer to that question is yes. Then, if they are interested in him as a backup – would Darren Sharper accept a reduced role behind Malcom Jenkins? I’m not convinced about that either. We know Jenkins is a corner by trade, so he can still cover the slot on passing downs which would allow Sharper to come in, but that strategy proved a liability more than a luxury last season when the Saints tried it. If he’s really “110%”, maybe that changes things but it’s hard to say.
Either way, I’ll say it once and I’ll say it again: don’t bet against Darren Sharper. If he’s healthy, I have no doubts that he’ll come back and play very well. That said, I have my doubts it’ll be in black and gold. Personally, I’d love for them to find a place for them on the team, and if a new CBA allows for expanded rosters maybe that strengthens the possibility (because they could also keep a younger backup safety for special teams) but again, do you really want to pay an aging guy in his mid thirties to back up your blossoming stud in Malcolm Jenkins?
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