Nick Fairley was diagnosed with a heart condition coming out of college. Doctors determined the condition was minor enough to play. But a recent re-examination raised some red flags, and after consulting at least three doctors the Saints have decided to take Fairley out of action.
Officially, the Saints say Fairley will undergo another reassessment at the end of the year. But heart conditions rarely improve. If there’s even the slightest chance of something happening during a game, Fairley won’t be allowed to suit up. He’s career is likely over. He may not announce his retirement at any time during the coming year — for contract reasons, he may not announce it until his contract expires — but we can treat it as a given.