Saints Biggest Winners and Losers vs. the Texans
WINNER: DEFENSIVE TACKLE NICK FAIRLEY
The “next man up” mentality is one that is preached at every level of sport.
When one of your teammates goes down, you better be ready — and Nick Fairley looked ready.
After the news that 1st round pick DT Sheldon Rankins will miss 6-8 weeks with a fractured fibula, all eyes are now focused on the former SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
Fairley has been questioned for his heart for most of his NFL career. He has been called lazy, but he has also showed his array of talents in the trenches.
The biggest question surrounding Fairley is “which Fairley” will the Saints get this year?
He certainly showed the better side last night, with 4 tackles, 2 for loss, and a sack in limited time.
Nick Fairley is playing all by himself for Saints tonight. Fantastic showing. 10-0 Texans
— Saints Happy Hour Podcast (@SaintsHappyHour) August 21, 2016
Because the Saints are paying Fairley a maximum of $5 million this year due to a performance based contract, there is not question he will be on the 53 Man roster.
However, a big outing like this one will work in his favor, of playing in New Orleans BEYOND 2016.
Next: Shattered