Soon after the New Orleans Saints drafted safety Kenny Vaccaro in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft, the speculation started about veteran safety Roman Harper. Could he be released? Could he be forced to take a pay cut?
Instant Debate: The pressure is on ...
Which rookie faces the most daunting spotlight in 2013? Our analysts debate, with Jets QB Geno Smith topping the list. **More ...**
On Friday, we found the answer. NFL.com's Ian Rapoport reports that Harper signed a contract extension that guarantees him $4 million for 2013. He originally was set to make $5.25 million, but the new contract guarantees Harper won't get cut.
The contract is believed to have added a year on to Harper's current contract, providing some cap relief for the Saints. Harper's future beyond 2013 remains uncertain; the same is true for fellow safety Malcolm Jenkins. But now it's clear that the eighth-year veteran will stick around this year.
Harper's skill set includes blitzing and playing tough near the line of scrimmage. That should work with what defensive coordinator Rob Ryan wants to accomplish much better than how Harper fit with Steve Spagnuolo last season.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.
