One week ago, the reason for Saints defensive tackle Nick Fairley's absence from offseason team workouts was revealed. The 29-year-old Fairley had a heart condition that could potentially end his career. Since then, speculation and overreaction has run rampant through the media and fans alike. Coach Sean Payton spoke to the media after the team's practice on Thursday, and did add clarification to recent events.
Fairley was diagnosed with an enlarged heart during his pre-draft physical in 2011. The condition did not prevent doctor's from clearing Fairley, the 2010 SEC defensive player of the year, from continuing his football career in the NFL.