Damien Harris Could Have Bigger Role in Pats Offense Than You Think

Swapping out Tom Brady for Jarrett Stidham means the New England Patriots will have to lean on their running game more than in previous years. Unfortunately, the key cog in that backfield machine is still a bit banged up, as former first-rounder Sony Michel is reportedly recovering from a procedure on his foot.

If Michel is either unable to go by the start of the season or the organization wants to proceed cautiously, 2019 third-round pick Damien Harris might be next in line on the depth chart.

“Michel is recovering from surgery on his foot, and even if he progresses well over the next six weeks, it makes sense to think the Patriots will proceed cautiously with him. That would give Harris an extended opportunity to show he's worthy of a larger role.” https://t.co/JAXw7ZidCJ
— Sigmund Bloom (@SigmundBloom) June 14, 2020

Harris barely saw the field last year, as he carried the ball just four times for 12 yards. Harris never really became a tremendous pass-catcher at Alabama, which left him unable to compete with James White for snaps as the designated "pass-catching" running back.

If Michel is unable to recapture the form that helped lead the Patriots to a championship in 2019, someone like Harris would have a MUCH higher ceiling than Rex Burkhead or Brandon Bolden.

Damien Harris on the very first play (2017)#ArkansasHateWeek pic.twitter.com/GCdZTnu8mk
— Alabama DieHards (@AlabamaDieHards) October 24, 2019

Michel's injury history and the reliance on an inexperienced Stidham could force Harris into an expanded role in his second year in the league. If his college career at Alabama is anything to go off of, New England should feel fine with letting him tote the rock a dozen times a game.