New England Patriots: 6 potential first time Pro Bowlers in 2021

5. New England Patriots running back Damien Harris rushing for stardom

Will 2021 be the year of Damien Harris?

The New England Patriots running back showed that he can be the primary back in 2020 when he was healthy.  In 10 games played, Harris racked up 691 yards and two touchdowns.  More impressive was his 5.0 yards per carry with a running style the Patriots have been clamoring for.

Though the season ended in disappointment for Harris, as he missed the final weeks of the season due to injury, it was a nice Year 2 leap for the Alabama hammer and a season he can certainly build off entering his third year in the league.

Given his work ethic, as highlighted by Patriots head coach Bill Belichick following minicamp, Harris has the tools to rush for over 1,000 yards this upcoming season if he’s healthy.

"“Damien works extremely hard,” Belichick said during his video conference, as transcribed by NBC Sports Boston.  “Works at all phases, all aspects of his game, certainly his conditioning and training, running game, passing game, protection, route running, catching the ball. “He’s a hard-working kid that just tries to do whatever he can to help the team and he’s got a lot of skill and can contribute in a variety of ways and he’s looking to improve and upgrade where he is in every area.”"

Obviously, the team’s most complete back, Harris has Pro-Bowl potential because of his running style and ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.  The only thing perhaps standing in his way besides health, is the Patriots’ depth chart that includes Sony Michel, James White, J.J. Taylor and fourth-round pick Rhamondre Stevenson.

The success of either of those players could take some snaps away from Harris, but there is no doubt he will enter the 2021 NFL season as the No. 1 back.  He just has to maintain it.  As long as he does, he will make a name for himself in the NFL.