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New Orleans Saints defensive end Marcus Davenport finally got his finger problem fixed, but it came at a cost.
Davenport revealed to reporters on Wednesday that he had removed the top part of his left pinky after breaking a plate that was placed in it during the offseason.
The problem led to more surgeries and eventually amputation after he developed an infection in his finger.
He told reporters that he first tore ligaments in his finger during a bowl game while he was at Texas-San Antonio.
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New Orleans Saints defensive end Marcus Davenport (92) is blocked by Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Jake Matthews (70) during the second half at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans November 7, 2021. (Chuck Cook/USA Today Sports)
“You’re looking at a knot,” he said, holding up his hand.
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New Orleans Saints defensive end Marcus Davenport during the second quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, January 2, 2022. (Chuck Cook/USA Today Sports)
Davenport, 25, said he also had shoulder surgery during the offseason and the finger problem changed his rehab schedule. He said his partially amputated finger shouldn’t affect his pass-rushing skills.
Overall, he said he was just happy to breathe.
“After all this, I’m just glad to be alive. I’m getting to know the healthcare system a lot better and I’m a part of it, so I have a lot of appreciation,” he said.
New Orleans Saints defensive end Marcus Davenport waits for a play during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles on November 21, 2021 in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, file)
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The Saints selected Davenport 14th overall in the 2018 draft. Since then he has played in 48 games, recorded 113 tackles and picked up 21 sacks. He’s a big reason the Saints defense has been in the top 10 for points and yards allowed for the past two seasons.
Ryan Gaydos is a sports editor at Fox News and Fox Business. Story tips can be sent to [email protected].