Roman Harper

Roman Harper (born December 11, 1982) is an American football safety for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of Alabama, and was drafted in the second round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. In 2009, Harper earned his first Pro Bowl berth and helped lead the Saints to Super Bowl XLIV.

Early years

Harper was born and went to high school in Prattville, Alabama, where he was a quarterback, safety, and returner for Prattville High School. He led the Lions to a 9-2 record his senior season. One of those losses came from rival Sidney Lanier High School in the regional championship game. Harper was a first Team All State performer and was also selected to the Alabama-Mississippi All Star Game.

College career

Harper attended the University of Alabama, and played for the Alabama Crimson Tide football team. He was a four-year letterman and a three-year starter and finished his college football career with 302 tackles, 5 interceptions, 5 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, and 3.5 sacks. As a sophomore, he totaled 114 tackles (second most on the team) and also had an interception and a fumble recovery. As a junior, he was a second team All-Southeastern Conference selection. As a senior, he was a first team All-Southeastern Conference selection.