Just before the trade deadline passed on Tuesday, the Philadelphia Eagles agreed to swap running back Ronnie Brown with Detroit for Jerome Harrison. It would have been the second straight year the Eagles had traded for Harrison. But a few hours later, it was announced that the trade had been voided because Harrison didn't pass his physical.
ESPN's Adam Schefter sited health issues as the problem. On Wednesday, Schefter reported that doctors discovered a brain tumor in Harrison. It turns out, as Schefter noted, the deal actually may have saved the 28-year-old's life.
"Without trade, Jerome Harrison doesn't get physical. Without physical, doctors don't find brain tumor. Trade might have saved his life," Schefter tweeted.
Harrison isn't expected to play again this season.
The Browns drafted Harrison out of Washington State in the 6th round of the 2006 draft. He spent four full seasons with Cleveland and is most known for his incredible record-setting day in the 2009 season. He rushed for 286 yards against the Kansas City Chiefs, breaking Jim Brown's franchise record that he held since 1957.
Last October, the Browns traded Harrison to the Eagles for running back Mike Bell. Before this season began, Harrison signed with the Lions.