Darren Sharper still isn't able to play after knee surgery
All-Pro safety Darren Sharper will not play in the New Orleans Saints preseason finale against the Tennessee Titans Thursday night, Coach Sean Payton announced Wednesday.
Sharper, who had microfracture surgery on his left knee in the offseason, remains on the team’s PUP list.
Sharper said that his aim is to be ready to play in the season-opening game next Thursday against the Minnesota Vikings.
“My goal is to be ready for that Vikings game,” Sharper said. “I think I will be ready.”
Shaper, who is entering his 14th season, led the NFL with nine interceptions last season.
He was one of the Saints’ defensive stars in last year’s Super Bowl win, finishing with a team-high 11 tackles.
Sharper thinks that his biggest challenge is to get game-ready. There has been growing speculation that his roster spot might be in jeopardy, or he could be placed on IR.
“It’s disappointing not being out there and watching film with yourself not on the tape,” Sharper said. “But I feel good and that isn’t me just saying that because (media) is asking me in front of cameras. I am happy with the healing process. Now it is just about getting in football shape.”