EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J: Kenneth Harper’s football career at Temple could be described as he was a player who did what the team needed him to do and he performed his tasks well.

During his four-year career at Temple, Harper Played in 48 games, carried the rock 269 times for 1,113 yards (4.1 yards per carry), scored 17 touchdowns, Harper also caught 66 passes good for 528 yards and 4 more touchdowns.

Harper was always there…solid, dependable.

He has been given an opportunity for that kind of role at the NFL level by the New York Giants.

Harper had to get through a tryout he was invited to as part of Big Blue’s Rookie Camp.

The 6-foot, 225 pounder did not have a contract, just an opportunity, which he seized. Harper was impressive enough to get a free agent contract and a long look through the summer to see if he can land a spot with the Giants.

Harper talked about the tryout.

“The coaches at the rookie mini-camp want to see how fast you learn things, and go from there,” he said at his locker after an Organized Team Activity session. “For most guys it’s kind of hard at first, they are trying to learn all the concepts of all the plays. They want to see how fast you can think on the run.”

Harper said he seemed to be able to connect with what kind of quickly,” the Florida native said. “I picked up things kind of quickly and it gave me kind of a chance to show a little bit of how I can cut and move fast.”

How did Harper feel when his name was called that he was getting a free agent contract?

“It was a relief,” Harper said. “I still have a long way to go. I still have to improve I still have to get better . I’m still trying to do what I need to do to make the 53 man roster. Right now I’m taking it day-to day and seize any opportunity that presents itself.”

Harper is not naive. He is not getting a shot at the NFL because of gaudy stats. He is in a Giants uniform right now because he may show he can help on Special Teams which thrives on guys like Harper.

“Whatever the team needs from me I’m willing to do,” He said, “I’m just taking it one day at a time and whatever opportunity comes I just have to seize it and take hold of it.”

Harper is not from Philadelphia so there is no Eagles green in his blood, but there is cherry red…Temple red.

“I still have a lot of good friends and guys I consider my brothers down there they are my family,” Harper said. “I’m still going to watch over them see what they’re doing I’m sure I will check in and stop by.”

Hopefully he will be getting requests for Giants-Eagles tickets.*