Duron Harmon aiming to earn a starting role in 2020

Highlights from Detroit Lions safety Duron Harmon’s teleconference call with the local media.

The Detroit Lions traded for safety Duron Harmon on Wednesday, and today they made him available to the Lions media via teleconference call.

Harmon left a very good impression on the media and discussed a variety of topics, ranging from attempting to earn a starting role, the steps taken to complete his contract, and how current Lions’ defensive back coach Steve Gregory helped him acclimate to the league.

Aiming for a starting role

Harmon has a nose for the football and the skill set to play single-high safety — and more — in the Lions scheme. It’s no secret that he is the front-runner for the job but he is not taking anything for granted.

“I know they already have two talented young players in the room,” Harmon said, “and I’m just trying to come there to help in any way I can. I don’t know what my considered role will be, but I know whatever I get will be earned.”

Harmon went on to say he is hopeful that he could earn a spot that would afford him the opportunity to see the field over 90- to 95-percent of snaps.

“I feel like I’m a rangy safety that gets to a lot of places,” Harmon said, “especially if I have good break on the quarterback, and that’s just what I like to do.”

Completed physical makes trade official

During these unusual times, it can be difficult for athletes to go through typical March procedures in the NFL.

Harmon mentioned that with training facilities closed he has had to find opportunities at home to stay in shape, working out in his basement and running drills on a hill close to his home.

Additionally, in order to finalize his trade to Detroit, the Lions scheduled a medical examination with a former Patriots doctor located close to his home. He passed the physical and if officially a Lion.

High praise for Lions DB coach Steve Gregory

When Harmon entered the league in 2013, the former third-round pick needed a mentor and veteran safety Steve Gregory was there to guide him.

“Gregory was the one who took me under his wing and taught me how to watch film,” Harmon said. “He was a great leader.”

Since then, Gregory moved on from his playing days, turned to the coach ranks. He has been in Detroit the last two seasons as a defensive assistant but was promoted this offseason to defensive backs coach and will once again, be giving direct guidance to Harmon.

When asked about what it would be like to work with Gregory again, Harmon had lots of positive things to say. “I’m excited to work back with him,” Harmon said. “He may be the smartest DB (defensive back) I’ve worked with.”

Career Highlights

Ahead of the interview the Lions and Lions PR Twitter accounts put out tweets focused on Harmon’s career: