The Saints plan to use Harper in a part-time role, where he will be deployed closer to the line of scrimmage as a blitzer and open-field tackler, reports ESPN.com.

EDGE Analysis

Although he racked up 73 tackles as a starter last year in Carolina, Harper's reduced role comes as no surprise, as he was largely signed to provide veteran depth behind oft-injured safety Jairus Byrd. Even if Harper makes the Saints' final roster -- no guarantee given the team's depth at the position -- he likely will have only minimal fantasy value.

Harper was signed by the Saints on Tuesday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports.

EDGE Analysis

Harper, who was drafted by the Saints and spent eight seasons in New Orleans, returns to provide veteran depth behind free safety Jairus Byrd. In 16 games with the Panthers last season, Harper racked up 73 tackles, five passes defensed, and two fumble recoveries.

Harper wasn't listed on the Panthers' injury report Wednesday, Jonathan Jones of the Chrlotte Observer reports.

EDGE Analysis

Harper missed the entire second half of the NFC championship game due to a swollen eye. However, his lack of presence on the first Super Bowl injury report confirms that he'll be able to handle his normal duties at strong safety against the Broncos.

Harper (eye) expects to be ready for the Super Bowl, ESPN's David Newton reports.

EDGE Analysis

Harper was unable to play in the second half of Sunday's win over the Cardinals, likely because a swollen eye had a major impact on his vision. It's an issue that should clear up before the Super Bowl, but if not, Tre Boston will start alongside Kurt Coleman against the Broncos.

Harper left Sunday's game against the Cardinals due to an eye injury and will not return to the contest, NFL Network's Tiffany Blackmon reports.

EDGE Analysis

With Harper ruled out for the rest of the evening, Tre Boston and/or Colin Jones will fill in alongside Kurt Coleman at safety.

Harper made three solo tackles and an interception in Sunday's tie with the Bengals. Harper has now nabbed an interception in consecutive games, bringing his season total to three through just six appearances. So while Harper's 20 tackles on the campaign might underwhelm, his ball-hawking ability is certainly of value to fantasy owners.

Harper (toe) is not listed on the Panthers' injury report in advance of Sunday's regular season opener against the Buccaneers. Harper missed the beginning of the preseason while dealing with turf toe, but returned to practice a couple weeks ago. With Robert Lester being released, Harper will start at strong safety next to Thomas DeCoud in Carolina's new-look, veteran safety tandem.

Harper (toe) returned to practice Sunday, Panthers.com reports. Harper has been out for several weeks while recovering from turf toe, so joining his new teammates in Sunday's practice is certainly a welcomed sight with the regular season quickly approaching. At the moment, it's unclear whether the Panthers' offseason signing will factor into Thursday's preseason finale, but his experience should allow him to play in Week 1, even if he misses a fourth exhibition outing. Health permitting, the veteran's presence should help Carolina at strong safety, where second-year player Robert Lester has received considerable action thus far.

Harper (toe) won't play in Friday's preseason game versus the Patriots, the Charlotte Observer reports. Harper's turf toe has sidelined him for the entire preseason slate thus far, marking the Panthers' most concerning current injury issue. Previously expected to start at strong safety, Harper's absences continues to allow second-year player Robert Lester added reps.

Harper (toe) did not play in the Panthers' second preseason game Sunday. Harper's turf toe injury has kept him out of commission for both of the Panthers' preseason games thus far. However, given his rest period, Harper could return to practice some time this week, although Carolina is expected to be cautious with their newly signed 31-year-old safety.