The offseason begins for the New England Patriots, and they have several decisions to make in regards to free agents.
One of those free agents is running back Damien Harris, who expressed interest in returning to New England following Sunday’s loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Harris had a breakout campaign in 2021. He tallied 202 carries for 929 yards and 15 touchdowns. Injuries held him back in the 2022 season, and he was a complementary back to Rhamondre Stevenson. Stevenson became the first Patriots running back since LeGarrette Blount in 2016 to rush for at least 1,000 yards.
Harris was drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2019 NFL draft. The former Alabama star has built himself quite the resume in New England, and he would like to see that continue, as he told reporters.
“If they want to have me, I’d love to come back,” Harris said. “But at the end of the day, I know this is a business. I know that this organization is going to do what they feel is best for them, and at the end of the day, I’ve got to do what I feel like is best for me.
“We’ll see what happens. I’m not really worried about that right now. Just trying to enjoy this last opportunity to be with my teammates this year, and whatever happens next year, happens next year.”
Pending free agent Damien Harris: “If they want to have me, I’d love to be back.” pic.twitter.com/4QKfSLXMtA
— Chris Mason (@ByChrisMason) January 8, 2023
It will be intriguing to see who stays and who goes in the running back room for the Patriots, as they look towards 2023.
