Why the New England Patriots could have a rookie gem in Kevin Harris
Could the New England Patriots have a hidden gem in rookie running back Kevin Harris?
With a combination of size, power, and speed, it certainly can’t be ruled out, but the question is more whether the 2022 sixth-round pick will even get the opportunity to see the field with both Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson forecasted to carry most of the load in 2022.
In fact, the Patriots running back group is loaded. Along with Harris and Stevenson, the Patriots will have James White back and they also drafted fellow rookie running back Pierre Strong Jr. in the fourth round. Don’t forget J.J. Taylor and veteran playmaker Ty Montgomery who could also take reps at running back for the team in 2022.
But, as loaded as that running back appears on paper, the Patriots do rotate running backs and given the contract status of Damien Harris, an opportunity may be there for the South Carolina product sooner rather than later.
The New England Patriots could have a good problem at running back
In predicting every team’s surprise rookie gem, Bleacher Report chose Kevin Harris because they see an opportunity there despite the running back talent ahead of him. In his article, Ian Wharton writes:
"“Kevin Harris was a dominant rusher at South Carolina before a back injury derailed his collegiate career and drastically hurt his draft stock. He’s similar to incumbent starter Damien Harris. Considering Damien Harris missed two games in 2021 and that he’s a free agent after this season, the door is open for his replacement to earn a solid workload.”"
It’s hard to disagree with B/R here because Bill Belichick did draft two running backs for a reason. With other area needing more attention, certainly linebacker, Belichick’s selection of both Strong and Harris in the 2022 NFL Draft was surprising, but an indication that the team is thinking forward.
Given his running style, it appears Kevin Harris gives the Patriots a backup plan or replacement if the elder Harris takes his talent elsewhere following the season or perhaps traded at some point before or during the season, especially if the rookie running back emerges.
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With Stevenson emerging and, in the mix, the chances of Harris having a surprise rookie season is slim, but both health and ball security issues of those running backs mention can quickly slot an opportunity for the South Carolina product.
As he rushed for 182 yards in his final game in college, it is apparent he is healthy and has the talent to be a force in the NFL. The question is when will he get his shot? If he pushes both Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson in training camp and show flashes in the preseason, a hidden gem could be exposed quickly, which would leave a good problem for Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots to deal with.
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In other words, the two-headed monster that is Harris and Stevenson may have a challenger looking to share or even take some of those reps.