Not every career starts with a dynamic rookie season. Damien Harris can speak to that.
The Alabama product was selected 87th overall in last year’s draft and was thrust into a crowded backfield with Sony Michel, James White, Rex Burkhead and Brandon Bolden. There simply weren’t enough touches to go around, as Harris finished his rookie year with four carries for 12 yards.
What can be expected of the soon-to-be 23-year-old as he looks to take on his second season?
If the running back depth chart remains the same, it would be tough to imagine Harris getting many more carries than he got this year. The number probably wouldn’t be single-digits, but it won’t be up near starter or even backup reps. He may take some of the carries from White who last year totaled 67 rushes for 3.9 yards per carry.
Harris doesn’t have much experience in the passing game, but he may be able to take some of the load off of White in that sense as well.
It would be really interesting to see if the Patriots attempt to use Harris in the red zone. Michel has struggled to take advantage of short-yardage situations in his short career. They’ve even shifted to using fullbacks and Tom Brady when they need to get two yards or less. Harris isn’t necessarily built like the prototypical goal-line back, but he could be the guy that finally shows that he can get the toughest yards.
It’s also important to note that Burkhead is in danger of being released this off-season as a cap casualty. He’s in the final year of his deal, and the team could save nearly $3 million by releasing him. It’s not because he hasn’t been productive in his limited opportunities, but it would likely be because of his injury history and the need for more impactful weapons.
With that being said, Harris could move up to the third spot on the depth chart. So, while he wouldn’t fill the exact role that Burkhead had, it’s likely that a majority of those 55 to 65 touches could go to him. In his two preseason games, Harris showed solid vision and the ability to hit the right hole. He even brought in a couple receptions in each game and showed he could make the first guy miss.
This season likely won’t be an exciting one for Harris, but it could be another step towards a significant role in the future with New England.
Projected stats w/ Burkhead: 20 carries, 82 yards, 3 receptions, 24 yards.
Projected stats w/o Burkhead: 65 carries, 270 yards, 1 TD, 13 receptions, 120 yards.