The beginning of Damien Harris’ 2021 season has been punctuated by peaks and valleys.
New England’s No. 1 running back has already eclipsed 100 yards twice, but also has two red zone fumbles, including one that likely cost the Patriots their season opener against the Dolphins. But despite the uneven start, it sounds like Bill Belichick couldn’t be happier with what Harris is doing behind the scenes.
The Patriots coach raved about the back’s work ethic in his Friday morning press conference.
“(Harris) has a ton of respect from every player and coach in this organization, as he should, because he’s earned that. That’s not something you get from talking or some kind of a false image. You get it from day-after-day, consistent performance and dedication, and he’s the poster boy for that,” Belichick said. “He works extremely hard and takes his job very seriously and always tries to perform at the absolute highest level and do what’s best for the team.
“So he has everybody’s — he’s earned everybody’s respect for that. That’s not anything that’s given. He’s put in the blood, the sweat and he’s earned it.”
Belichick went on to explain that the coaching staff has been impressed with some of his carries that haven’t found their way onto highlight reels.
“Every play is not an 80-yard touchdown,” Belichick said. “Some of the best runs he’ll have are going to be five-yard gains, but that’s getting the most out of the play. Maybe it was a play that was blocked for one that he gets five out of. So I think that’s what every player needs to do, Damien has done a good job of that.”
Related content:
Mac Jones is a ‘super tough kid’ who ‘truly loves the game of football,’ according to Nelson Agholor
Matthew Judon: New England Patriots don’t have a single bad football player on the roster
Ad Choices