Houston Texans trade up for Alabama linebacker Christian Harris in 2022 NFL Draft

275133747_4796292347117549_592518599057046758_nby:Jonathan Wagner•04/29/22•

Jonathan Wagner

After an impressive three-year career with the Alabama Crimson Tide, linebacker Christian Harris has heard his name called in the 2022 NFL Draft. The Houston Texans traded with the Denver Broncos and selected Harris with the No. 75 overall pick in the third round.

Harris made an impact right away at Alabama, totaling 61 tackles with 7.5 tackles for loss, one pass defended and one fumble recovery in 2019. He then totaled 79 tackles, seven tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, two passes defended, and one interception as a sophomore in 2020. This past season, Harris turned in his best season yet with 80 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, three passes defended, and two forced fumbles.

During his collegiate career, Harris undoubtedly made a big impact on an Alabama defense that contained other stars all over. Now, Harris is looking to prove that he is worthy of his draft selection, and he hopes to translate his collegiate success into the NFL.

Harris opened some eyes at the NFL Combine, when he ran a 4.44 second 40-yard dash.

What NFL Draft analysts are saying about Christian Harris

Ahead of the NFL Draft, NFL analyst Lance Zierlein broke Harris down as a prospect and assessed his game entering draft weekend. In Harris, Zierlein sees a linebacker with strong physical traits that has the potential to be a starter in the NFL. He gave Harris a NFL comparison of De’Vondre Campbell, who had a big year with the Green Bay Packers last season.

“Long, athletic inside linebacker whose strengths and weaknesses could make him a target for a move outside,” Zierlein said. “Harris’ lack of desired recognition will result in missteps and mistakes that could prove much more costly on the NFL level. However, he could thrive as a chase-and-hit, weakside linebacker, where he can play faster.

“He can handle some coverage chores but it’s not his strong suit. Harris has the physical attributes and athletic ability to make plays as an eventual starter but he might lack three-down versatility.”