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Jeff Haupt Suffers Broken Finger, Possibly Out For Season

Last Tuesday's game might be the last of the season for Warriors wide receiver Jeff Haupt. Early into Tuesday's game, Haupt complained of an injured finger after an attempted stop. He continued to play and completely finished out the game, playing well in the last half and scoring his first touchdown as a Warrior. After still feeling pain in the finger the next day, Haupt visited team doctors at the request of his girlfriend, Michelle Landuyt. On Wednesday, team doctors X-Rayed Haupt and discovered that the touchdown reception was made by a hand with a shattered finger.

The finger, Haupt's right pinkie, was cracked at initial contact and later shattered and fragmented, most likely during the course of the game. Doctors say that the finger couldn't benefit from a cast and, after much discussion, probably didn't need a pin. However, Haupt's return to the team this season is unlikely at best. If he does play, Jeff would risk further shattering the finger.

The possibility still remains for Haupt to remain on the team as a punting specialist. Haupt, who punted once last game, had his only kick downed on the 4-yard line. However, as of Wednesday, the finger was preventing him from holding the ball correctly for a stable punt. If Haupt is unable to return to punting duties, Denny Lane will take over punting the ball. Lane and Haupt have practiced together and both can easily launch the ball more than 45 yards in the air. Either way, the Warriors should be secure, no matter who handles the punting chores.

When asked about a possible return next week, Haupt said "Well, just because my finger is broken doesn't mean I've lost hope for a late season return."

Barring an unlikely trip to the playoffs, the Warriors close out their season next Tuesday at 7:30 at Plaster Stadium.

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