MichaelHarper

Returned to action in spring practice … Was contending for playing time in August 2009 when he incurred a back and knee injury … Returned to practice and played in one game before the misfortune of another knee injury that ended his season … Transfer from Howard University who has shown playmaking ability in practice … His background as a high-school quarterback helps him have good knowledge of the passing game.

2009 (Junior): Played in one game, the victory over the University of Louisiana at Monroe … Sustained a knee injury later and was lost for the remainder of the season.

2008 (Junior): Transferred to Kentucky … Redshirted.

At Howard University: Spent the 2006 and 2007 seasons at Howard University … Saw time at wide receiver during his second year at Howard … Played in five games for the Bison, catching four balls for 90 yards and two touchdowns … Also spent time on special teams as a kick returner, bringing back eight balls for a gain of 140 yards on the season.

High School: Dual-threat offensive player in high school, playing primarily at quarterback with some time at wide receiver … Helped lead his team to the Georgia state semifinals for the first time in school history as a senior and four-straight regional championships … In a game against Brookwood, topped 250 yards of total offense, scoring two touchdowns through the air and rushing for another TD … Named team’s most outstanding offensive player as a senior … Received multiple player of the week awards … Coached by Ron Gartrell … Two-year letterman on both the basketball and track and field teams … Competed in the 200- and 400-meter dashes and the high jump … Enjoys playing video games and making music in his free time.

Personal: Born in Atlanta … Son of Krystal Nelloms and Paul Harper III His godbrother and mentor is Reggie Ball, who played at Georgia Tech and with the NFL Detroit Lions … Major is sociology.