The Patriots’ depth at linebacker was one of the biggest questions marks remaining with the team, but after signing former Jet David Harris to a two-year deal, they’ve solidified that final weakness and look as stacked as ever on both sides of the ball.
After Dont’a Hightower the linebacker corps was extremely specialized. Elandon Roberts showed promise in his rookie year as a two-down run stuffer, while Kyle Van Noy had the athleticism necessary to play passing downs. That trio, along with hybrid edge defenders Rob Ninkovich and Shea McClellin, were enough to get the team past the Falcons in Super Bowl 51.
New Patriot LB David Harris got a two-year, $5 million deal. Up to $1.75 million in incentives. $1.25 million guaranteed.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) June 21, 2017
But prior to the Harris signing I was wondering in fear what would happen if Hightower misses time, as he usually does. Now Harris gives them a level of leadership and insurance at the heart of the defense that is reassuring. I still would like to see more athleticism from the group, but this group can get the job done.
Here’s Belichick a few years ago on David Harris pic.twitter.com/hTHvbqj9Eq
— Mark Daniels (@MarkDanielsPJ) June 21, 2017
It always feels a bit weird adding a quinnessential Jet like Harris. He’s been their defensive leader going back to his rookie year in 2007 when he started nine games. With few exceptions, every battle against Harris’ Jets defense has been tough sledding for Tom Brady, and that’s a testament to Harris’ smarts and experience as the man in the middle who gets everyone in that complicated front on the same page.
Belichick is a master of managing each players role to maximize their effectiveness, especially with vets toward the end of their career. Harris might not be an every down, every game linebacker, but given his durability (missed just one game since 2009), there will certainly be games where he’s called on for a full workload.
Early in the season they can pick their spots, allow guys like Roberts and Van Noy to get more experience, and save Harris as much as possible until injuries mount and the games get more important.
This is an exciting and needed addition, one that gives the defense another smart, tough player who should fit right in.
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It’s all about health. If this team stays healthy, I mean, any given Sunday but — it’s hard to imagine with the combination of experience, talent, and depth they have they won’t get to the SB. Let’s hope the 2013/15 bug doesn’t come close to catching this year.
I like David Harris a lot, especially with how thin we are at linebacker, but do you think he’s a guarantee to make the roster? I was reading another article that had him pegged as definitely making the roster because of the contract, but I just don’t know if I believe that.
I don’t think anyone is ever a 100% lock with this team, but given the thin depth and the kind of player Harris is and what he clearly still has left in the tank I think he’s pretty close to a roster lock unless he’s really lost a step since last season.