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According to FOX Sports reporter Jennifer Hale, New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Nick Fairley has been absent from OTAs because of medical issues. Hale further reports that it’s specifically heart trouble, and that it could jeopardize the future of his career.
Saints DT Nick Fairley has been absent from OTA's bc of medical issues. Tests show heart trouble that could jeopardize future of his career.
— Jennifer Hale (@JenHale504) June 3, 2017
Unfortunately, this isn’t good news, and Hale isn’t the only one to hear about this. The Advocate’s Nick Underhill has also heard similar reports on Fairley, and NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo has stated that teammates have not been able to get in touch with the veteran.
Adding to @JenHale504 on Nick Fairley: Teammates who speak to him regularly haven't been able to get a hold of him, sources say.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) June 3, 2017
After shining last season on essentially a one-year ‘prove it’ type of deal, Fairley was rewarded with a big contract extension in early March worth $28 million. The four-year deal included an $8 million signing bonus. It would be a huge loss for the Saints interior line, who saw a big boost with Fairley in the mix. Of course, once we know more we’ll pass it along.