Saints come marching in for Greer

Keith Greer works out Friday on the turf near the Kibbie Dome, as he prepares to head to New Orleans to try out for the Saints.

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Story Published: May 5, 2007 at 10:06 AM PDT

Story Updated: May 5, 2007 at 10:38 AM PDT

By Greg Meyer

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MOSCOW - Some say Keith Greer exemplifies all that is good about collegiate athletics. And now, he hopes to carry that quality with him to the next level.

He's talented, competitive and humble. It's hard to imagine that family, friends and fans almost lost Keith Greer four years ago.

It was on a short pass in the WSU - Idaho game, played at Qwest Field, the first game of the 2003 season. Michael Harrington threw the pass to Greer, who was playing fullback. Greer left the field on a stretcher, with a broken fibia and tibia. He underwent surgery, but complications from the procedure put him in intensive care for weeks.

Greer's comeback is nothing short of miraculous. He returned to the Vandals, playing tight end for three years. And this past weekend, something happened he has always dreamed of.

The New Orleans Saints offered him a three-year contract to play fullback.

"Right after the draft, about two minutes after the draft ended, my agent called me and said we had an offer from New Orleans, Greer said Friday. “So, I accepted. They sent the contract over, it got here on Tuesday, I signed it and sent it out Wednesday."

Greer said since Sunday he's found himself in somewhat of a state of disbelief.

"It's kind of surreal right now," he said. "I don't think it's really set in on me, like what I've accomplished right now. I still have to make the team and everything, but it's very exciting and I really can't believe it right now to be honest."

Greer's family is supporting his decision to continue playing the game he loves.

"They're real excited," said Greer. “I think my mom kind of wanted me to stop playing after this last year, but she's excited now."

Greer leaves for rookie camp next Friday. He has never been to New Orleans but has been to Louisiana and said he finds it to his liking.

"Best food in the nation, I think. The Cajun food is awesome. I can't wait."

Blocking for superstar Reggie Bush, a standout rookie last year on New Orleans' Superbowl team, is something Greer looks forward to doing after making the team.

"You don't have to hold that block for very long," he said. "Just one hit, and as long as you get the hit on them, Reggie's gone."

He hopes to be a Saint this fall, but Greer said he will always show his Vandal colors and his appreciation of Vandal fans.

"I'm very glad to say that I'm a Vandal and I always will be," Greer said, directing his comments toward the Vandal nation. "Thanks a lot for all the support you've given me through the years."

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