Chris Harris Jr.: Houston Texans
Harris joined the Broncos as an undrafted free agent out of Kansas in 2011 and quickly developed into the NFL’s most effective slot defender — and perhaps the best slot defender of his era. A five-year, $42.5 million contract signed in 2014 came with the opportunity to play outside more often, and Harris would handle that task with equal aplomb. The Broncos have decided to move on from Harris after a season in which he allowed 47 receptions on 68 targets for 672 yards, three touchdowns,and an opponent passer rating of 109.4, with one interception. It was the first time since Harris’ rookie season that he gave up more touchdowns than interceptions and allowed a passer rating higher than 89.0, but the tape shows that Harris still has enough left in the tank in the right situation.
The Texans need all the cornerback help they can get. Lonnie Johnson Jr. was the most obvious problem in Houston’s secondary, allowing nine touchdowns with no interceptions and a 133.5 opponent passer rating. Vernon Hargreaves III gave up five touchdowns versus one pick and an opponent passer rating of 112.1. Gareon Conley allowed six touchdowns to one pick and an opponent passer rating of 93.2. And on and on. Johnathan Joseph is on the way out, and Bradley Roby is an upcoming free agent. Harris may not be who he was at his best, but he has the skill set and veteran acumen to ease an overdue and mandatory secondary transition.