Harold Perkins, the New Orleans native who made his mark as a standout linebacker at LSU, has been selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The pick marks a significant moment for Perkins, who has openly declared he is no longer a fan of the New Orleans Saints, the team he grew up cheering for in his hometown.
Perkins’ journey from the streets of New Orleans to the NFL reflects both his athletic development and a personal shift in allegiance. After four seasons with the LSU Tigers, Perkins entered the draft with a resume that included 220 tackles, 17 sacks, 35.5 tackles for loss, eight forced fumbles, and five interceptions — statistics verified through official LSU athletics records and NCAA reporting.
The Falcons, seeking to bolster their defensive depth and versatility, chose Perkins with the 185th overall pick. His selection adds a player known for his relentless motor, sideline-to-sideline range, and ability to disrupt plays both as a pass rusher and in coverage — traits that stood out during his time in Baton Rouge.
From Saints Supporter to Falcons Prospect
Perkins has not hesitated to address his changing loyalties. In interviews leading up to the draft, he stated plainly that he no longer identifies as a Saints fan, a sentiment rooted in his evolving perspective as a player who has competed at the highest level of college football.
“I ain’t a Saints fan no more,” Perkins said in a pre-draft interview, a quote circulated by multiple sports outlets and confirmed through video footage of his media availability. The remark, while candid, underscores a broader narrative about how athletes often redefine their relationships with hometown teams as they pursue professional careers.
Despite the shift in fandom, Perkins remains proud of his New Orleans roots. He has frequently credited his upbringing in the city for shaping his work ethic and resilience, qualities that helped him emerge as one of the SEC’s most productive defensive players over his four-year collegiate career.
LSU Career: Production and Impact
Perkins’ statistics at LSU reflect a player who consistently impacted games across multiple facets. Over 42 career games, he recorded:
- 220 total tackles — verified via LSU Athletics
- 17 sacks — LSU Athletics
- 35.5 tackles for loss — LSU Athletics
- 8 forced fumbles — LSU Athletics
- 5 interceptions — LSU Athletics
These numbers place him among the most productive defensive backs in recent LSU history, particularly in terms of creating turnovers and disrupting offensive rhythm. His ability to blitz from various angles and drop into coverage made him a valuable asset in defensive coordinator Blake Baker’s schemes.
Falcons’ Defensive Fit and Outlook
The Atlanta Falcons, under head coach Raheem Morris, have emphasized building a more aggressive, turnover-focused defense. Perkins’ skill set aligns with that vision — particularly his knack for forcing fumbles and his experience in high-pressure situations.
Analysts have noted that Perkins could contribute early on special teams and in sub-package defensive roles, with potential to grow into a more prominent role as he adjusts to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. His versatility allows him to line up as an off-ball linebacker, edge rusher, or even in hybrid defensive back positions.
While the sixth round typically represents a developmental pick, Perkins’ motor and football intelligence have drawn praise from evaluators who believe he can exceed expectations with proper coaching and opportunity.
What Comes Next
Perkins is expected to sign his rookie contract with the Falcons in the coming weeks and report to Organized Team Activities (OTAs) as part of the team’s offseason program. His performance during training camp and preseason will determine how quickly he integrates into the active rotation.
For now, the former LSU standout carries both the pride of his New Orleans origins and the focus of a player ready to prove himself at the next level — Saints fandom behind him, and a new chapter with the Falcons just beginning.
If you have thoughts on Harold Perkins’ draft journey or his transition from college to the NFL, share them in the comments below. Feel free to share this article with fellow football fans who appreciate stories of hometown talent making their mark.
