Damien Harris played very well for the Alabama Crimson Tide over the last three years, but he still fell all the way to the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, where the New England Patriots were happy to take him with the 87th overall pick.
Running back wasn't a huge need for the Patriots entering the draft, but it would have been hard to pass on a player of Harris' talents at that stage of the third round
NFL Network recently did a segment on "Good Morning Football" discussing the biggest steals of the draft, and ex-Detroit Lions wide receiver Nate Burleson picked Harris. Check out his explanation in the video below:
Harris ran for 876 yards (5.8 yards per carry) and nine touchdowns, while also tallying 22 receptions for 204 yards for the Crimson Tide last season. He split touches with running back Josh Jacobs, who the Oakland Raiders selected in the first round.
Harris' ability to rack up yards between the tackles, block and catch passes out of the backfield highlights the versatility New England values at the running back position. He's also able to break tackles with his impressive strength through contact.
Don't be surprised if Harris is an important fixture of the Patriots' rushing attack along with Sony Michel, James White and Rex Burkhead during the 2019 season.
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New England Patriots
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