Former Alabama linebacker Christian Harris describes what kind of football player he is
Christian Harris was one of the key cogs on the Alabama Crimson Tide squad that reached the highly anticipated clash in the College Football Playoff title game and the new Houston Texans rookie is ready to continue to to build on his impressive skillset as he embarks on his inaugural NFL campaign.
Like many prospects heading into the NFL Draft, there were mixed reviews on when and where the defensive playmaker would get drafted but the Houston Texans clearly viewed Harris as another young piece who could elevate their defense as the franchise rebuilds. They traded up to snag Harris with the No. 75 overall pick in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Christian Harris joined the Texans’ in-house media team for an interview recently and was asked to describe his playing style.
“I mean for me, my entire time at Alabama, I wanted to dominate every single one of my opponents” the rookie said.
“I think that should be your goal every single play at this level.”
Harris– who thrived in all three seasons in Tuscaloosa — clearly took a major jump last year it mattered the most as NFL scouts and general managers began to grade prospects. The former Tide star closed out the 2021 campaign with 80 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, three passes defended, and two forced fumbles.
The former Alabama star added he believes his dynamic skillset and experience in thriving in various roles is a key element of his game.
“I think my background and versatility being able to play multiple positions, and eventually playing linebacker, my ability to play in the box or wherever they need me, I’m really excited about that,” Harris added.
What to expect from Christian Harris in NFL rookie debut
While the 2022 NFL Draft class was filled with talent at linebacker, Christian Harris opened some eyes at the NFL Combine, when he ran a 4.44 second 40-yard dash.
Christian 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.
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.”