Louisville Football: Things are looking up for Sheldon Rankins in New Orleans

Former Louisville football player Sheldon Rankins has been taken off the Injured-Reserve and has been practicing for the Saints.

Sheldon Rankins is set to start practicing for the New Orleans Saints after he broke his fibula in the preseason a few months ago. The former Louisville football player has been sorely missed on a Saints defense that has been terrible all season long.

New Orleans took a huge chance on Rankins by drafting him high in the first round, but he has all the abilities and tools to be an All-Pro defensive tackle in the National Football League.

This is what Marc Sessler from NFL.com had to say about Rankins:

Coach Sean Payton told reporters that first-round defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins is expected to practice on Wednesday for the first time since breaking his fibula during training camp.

Placed on injured reserve before the opener, Rankins will serve as the team’s lone designated-to-return player — and it couldn’t come at a better time.

New Orleans currently ranks 31st in total defense and is surrendering a league-worst 33.6 points per tilt. Rankins can’t save the squad alone, but he looked great during training camp and immediately fills a desperate need for the Saints.

It still should be at least a couple of weeks before Sheldon Rankins sees the field for the first time. However, they Saints don’t need to rush him along, as there is still more than half a season of football to play.

While they could use his help right now, it’s better for his future and the Saints’ if they decide to take it slow throwing him back on to the field this month or next.