Damien Harris, the former Alabama standout running back, has made the heartfelt decision to retire from professional football after a five-season tenure in the NFL. Announcing his retirement on Instagram, Harris shared his profound gratitude and the difficult realization that it was time to step away from the sport that has been a significant part of his life for two decades.
Harris reflected on his journey, emphasizing the honor of representing his family name both on and off the field, competing at the highest level, and the privilege of playing under the guidance of legendary coaches Nick Saban and Bill Belichick. These experiences, according to Harris, are just a glimpse of the blessings football has brought into his life.
More than the accolades and achievements, it’s the relationships, experiences, and the positive impact he’s been able to make that Harris cherishes the most. Expressing his gratitude, he highlighted the strength he found in making the tough decision to retire, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and returning kindness.
Drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Harris’s rookie year saw limited playtime. However, he quickly became the team’s leading rusher in the following two seasons. Despite his promising performance, injuries plagued his career, leading to missed games and ultimately a move to the Buffalo Bills in the last offseason. His tenure with the Bills was cut short after a neck injury during a game against the New York Giants, which led to him being placed on injured reserve for the remainder of the 2023 season.
As Harris steps into free agency without a team for the 2024 season and embraces fatherhood, he looks back on a fulfilling NFL career with 2,188 rushing yards, 21 touchdowns, and additional contributions in receiving.
At Alabama, Harris’s journey was equally impressive. Starting with a limited role behind Derrick Henry and Kenyan Drake, he eventually led the team in rushing yards for three consecutive seasons, contributing to a national championship win in 2017. His college career saw him amass over 3,000 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns, leaving a lasting legacy.
As Harris closes this chapter of his life, his contributions to football, both in college and the NFL, along with his resilience and spirit, will not be forgotten. His decision to retire is a testament to his understanding of life’s priorities and his readiness to embark on new adventures, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and integrity on the field.