Longtime NFL veteran running back Damien Harris has signed a new contract with the Buffalo Bills. Harris, a former third-round pick, spent the entirety of his professional career with the New England Patriots.
Former Patriots’ RB Damien Harris reached agreement on a one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 20, 2023
Damien Harris, Buffalo Bills, Agree to Contract
Damien Harris had something of a year to forget in 2022. While battling a series of injuries, the hard-nosed running back only managed to play in 11 games last year. Splitting time with Rhamondre Stevenson, Harris finished the season with 462 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 106 attempts (4.4 yards per carry). Additionally, the running back added another 17 receptions for 97 yards on a career-high 23 targets.
Harris originally entered the NFL as a third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. Selected by the New England Patriots, Harris spent his rookie season buried on the depth chart behind Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead, and James White. Harris effectively redshirted through his rookie season, appearing in only ten games while recording four carries for 12 yards.
Harris finally earned his chance to shine in the 2020 season. After Michel suffered an injury early in the season, Harris became the unquestioned starter. Starting and appearing in 10 games, the Alabama product exploded to the tune of 691 yards and two touchdowns on just 137 carries (5.0 yards per attempt). Additionally, he added another five receptions for 52 yards through the air.
Harris maintained the starting job in 2021 and put together the best season of his career. Starting and playing in 15 games, the former third-round pick set career highs in rushing yards (929), rushing touchdowns (15), rushing attempts (202), receptions (18), and receiving yards (132) while helping the Patriots make the playoffs for the first time in the post-Brady Era.
In total, Harris has appeared in 38 games throughout his four-year career. While on the field, the running back has recorded 2,094 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns on 449 attempts. Additionally, he has also recorded 40 receptions for 281 yards on 51 targets.
Main Photo: Jamie Germano – USA Today Sports
