Saints FS Darren Sharper(notes) is in contention for Defensive Player of the Year honors as we near the midseason mark, which is a prime situation for any player, regardless of age, to be in before he enters free agency. While New Orleans does not have anyone waiting in the wings as a replacement at free safety for Sharper next season, sources say they don't sense any urgency from the Saints to lock him up with an extension before he hits the market this offseason. Sources familiar with the inner workings of the front office say while there have been some exceptions made for younger, core players, it would be unlike the Saints to offer an extension to a player this late in the season. Source: ProFootballWeekly
I think ultimately, the Saints would like to see 1st round draft pick Malcom Jenkins take Sharper's place. Sharper is getting up there in age. I have to think that the Saints will try and sign Sharper up for at least one more year. He has played so well.
I do hope that the Saints would lock him up for at least another year. I know his age is going to be the big concern in any long term deal, but the way he's playing this season, he's provided leadership along side Vilma for the defensive unit, something the Saints needed. I would like to see him in New Orleans for at least another year, as long as he continues to be productive like he is now.
