When the Saints lost their star left tackle, “Big Neck” rose up to protect the blind side

Little-known “Big Neck” keeps Brees safe

MIAMI — Jermon Bushrod’s assignment was daunting, especially for someone who spent his first two NFL seasons without playing a snap on the offensive line.

When starting former Pro Bowl left tackle Jammal Brown went on injured reserve in the preseason, it was up to the quiet, unheralded Bushrod to protect Drew Brees’ blind side.

Five months later, the former second-day draft choice out of Towson is preparing for the Super Bowl.

The player everyone calls “Big Neck,” says he was a little unsure of himself when the season began. But few doubt his ability now.

In the NFC title game against Minnesota, Bushrod kept conference sack-leader Jared Allen from bringing down Brees.