Former Patriots Running Back Damien Harris Announces Retirement from NFL

After four seasons in the NFL, running back Damien Harris has announced his retirement at the age of 27. Harris, who spent last season with the Buffalo Bills, cited a neck injury suffered in Week 6 as the reason for his decision.

Harris was selected by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Alabama. During his time with the Patriots, he rushed for 2,094 yards and 20 touchdowns, with his best season coming in 2021 when he rushed for 929 yards and 15 touchdowns in 15 games played.

In his retirement announcement, Harris expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences he had while playing football, including being coached by Nick Saban and Bill Belichick, two of the greatest head coaches in the sport.

“For the past 20 years, playing the game of football has been one of the greatest privileges in my life,” Harris wrote on Instagram. “Getting to represent the name on the back of my jersey on and off the field, getting to compete at the highest level with and against the best competitors while winning championships, and being coached by the 2 greatest head coaches of all time in Nick Saban and Bill Belichick are all just a small part of what God has done in my life with the game of football.”

Harris also reflected on his time at Alabama, where he won two College Football Playoff National Championships and rushed for 3,070 yards and 23 touchdowns in four seasons. He ranks ninth all-time in rushing yards for the Crimson Tide.

Grateful for the Journey

In his retirement, Harris expressed gratitude for the people he met, the places he traveled, and the memories he made during his football career. He also emphasized the impact he was able to make on and off the field.

“The people I’ve met, the places I’ve been and will go on to go, the experiences and memories I’ve made, the impact I’ve been able to make to this point, these are the things that mean the most to me,” Harris wrote. “Gratitude is defined as ‘The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.’ Today I am grateful I have found the strength to walk away from the game I love so much.”

Moving On

While Harris’ retirement may come as a surprise to some, he is looking forward to the next chapter of his life. He expressed excitement for the future and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“I am excited for what the future holds and am grateful for the support of my family, friends, and fans as I embark on this new journey,” Harris wrote. “Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my football career. It has been an honor and a privilege to play this game at the highest level.”

Final Thoughts

Damien Harris’ retirement from the NFL may mark the end of his football career, but it is clear that he is grateful for the journey and the impact he was able to make. As he moves on to the next chapter of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, determination, and gratitude. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.