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New England Patriots: 3 offensive playmakers who could change everything

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17: Damien Harris #37 of the New England Patriots runs the ball during a game against the Tennessee Titans during week two of the preseason at Nissan Stadium on August 17, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Patriots defeated the Titans 22-17. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN - AUGUST 17: Damien Harris #37 of the New England Patriots runs the ball during a game against the Tennessee Titans during week two of the preseason at Nissan Stadium on August 17, 2019 in Nashville, Tennessee. The Patriots defeated the Titans 22-17. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots running back Damien Harris (Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images)
New England Patriots running back Damien Harris (Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images) /

If New England Patriots RB Damien Harris steps out of the shadows, watch out.

The 2020 NFL season could be a big one for second year running back Damien Harris.

In barely seeing the field in 2019, the Alabama product will have an opportunity to see increased snaps in 2020 due to the uncertainty of Sony Michel’s status and also the opt out of Brandon Bolden.

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At 5-foot-11, 214 pounds, the 2019 third-round pick has a combination of power and elusiveness that puts him in position to be the team’s go-to power back.  Patriots fans did see some of what he can do last preseason as a downhill runner who breaks tackles and has sneaky breakaway speed.

His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield could also earn him extensive snaps.

With Sony Michel, Rex Burkhead and newly signed veteran running back Lamar Miller also vying for lead back status, Damien Harris not only has to outperform them, he has to show New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and the coaching staff that he is ready.

One advantage he does have entering Year 2 of his NFL career is that he got to sit back and learn from a veteran running back group.  Along with James White, Harris noted how much he has learned from his teammates, which will further help his development going into 2020.

"“They all played their part in helping me learn and develop,” Harris said, via Patriots.com.  “The message from all of them is the same: Be ready. Because you never know when your time will come and you don’t want to miss it.  Stay the course, keep learning and be available.”"

If Damien Harris is ready, he could change everything for this New England Patriots offense.  With the team poised to be more of a power running team, adding Harris to the mix gives Josh McDaniels a deep mix of versatile running backs to line up behind Cam Newton, if indeed he is the starter going into the season.

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