Al’s agent, Jack Bechta, has been great about providing information and updates on Al’s condition.
Bechta confirmed Harris tore his spleen in the first quarter of Sunday’s game vs. Dallas. Harris knew something was wrong when he took himself off the field for the second time in the quarter:
(Harris) said I know I can play, but I better pull myself out, I better go check on this,” Bechta said. “Once Al told (head trainer Pepper Burruss) he was tasting some blood and had some blood in his urine, (Burruss) said, ‘That’s it, you’re done,’ took his helmet right there.”
As you may know, Al is seeking a second opinion and is hoping to get an update in the next 24 hours or so. If there’s even a small chace for 3irty1 to be back on the field this year, you KNOW he’ll make it happen.
Bechta said Harris seemed to be feeling OK Monday afternoon and is pushing to return to the field, but the initial prognosis from the Packers’ medical staff was that he shouldn’t play the rest of the season. Harris’ trip to a specialist ultimately will determine that. But the Packers aren’t going to let Al rush back to practice until the coast is clear:
“[Head trainer Pepper Burruss] is good,” Bechta said. “These guys will help protect Al from himself.”
Posted by Favre4Ever2008 on September 23, 2008 at 12:25 pm
Hey Al-
Best wishes as you work through this. We’ll definitely miss you on the field and can’t wait until your back but take care of yourself. Think about your long-term health!
Hope we see you back soon – Healthy and kicking a**!
Posted by Mike Blythe on September 23, 2008 at 12:39 pm
Al we wish you all the best and a speedy and complete recovery. We’re pulling for you and can’t wait to see you out there again. Best wishes man.
Posted by Mark Wheeler on September 23, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Al,
Take care of yourself; do what is best for your long term well being. Myself, the Packers, the fans and your team mates are all going to miss you tremendously. But it’s more important that you take care of your long term health regardless of how much that hurts this years team. Get well sir!
Posted by Taylor family on September 23, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Thoughts and prayers for rapid and complete recovery, Al!
Posted by Bolen Family on September 23, 2008 at 3:46 pm
Al,
As much as we love you and love to watch you play, your health is so much more important. Get healthy and look forward to seeing you play whether it be this year or next. God be with you.
Posted by Alena on September 23, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Al, if anyone can get back on that field this year, its gonna be you. i can’t wait until that day, but i know that your health is the most important thing, and you’ll do whatever’s best for yourself long term. I’ll be praying for your quick return because the field just won’t be the same without you.
Posted by Maggie on September 23, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Al,
I’m so sorry that you are going through this. I hope that you’ll have a speedy recovery! As a die-hard Packer fan, I can’t wait to see you back on the field. I love watching you play! I, and all of your fans, really appreciate your hard work. Get well, and get a new tat!
Posted by kathleen wutkowski on September 23, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Al,
Best wishes for a speedy recovery. We will definately miss you, but you need to take care of YOU then think of the Pack and us, the fans!
Posted by Steve Cline on September 23, 2008 at 9:10 pm
Al,
Take care of this the right way so we can get you back on the feild long term and in good health.
Posted by Dan on September 23, 2008 at 9:26 pm
Al,
We’re praying for your speedy recovery. While the Packers will certainly miss you, your health is top priority. Best wishes!
Posted by Justin Heintz on September 23, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Al, my prayers are with you. I loved watching you and the packers play on sundays. I know the team will miss you. I wish you a speedy recovery, and then you can get back to shuting down recievers. GOD BLESS
Posted by Patrick Boy and family on September 23, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Al,
You’re a warrior and we love you for it. You show defensive backs what true toughness looks like. We hope your recovery is speedy but not premature. We look forward to the day when you return at 100% to scare the hell out of receivers everywhere, all over again. Best of luck.
Posted by Prisiclla on September 24, 2008 at 1:01 pm
Hey Al (Sharnard), I am praying for your speedy recovery. Keep up the good work I am very proud of you. Your classmate (TIGER PRIDE)