Bill Belichick Makes Rare Admission About Damien Harris Patriots Role

The New England Patriots can’t wait for the season to begin. They have higher expectations this time. Bill Belichick made a few big moves in the offseason and he will do some more. This time the Patriots head coach addressed the situation of Damien Harris and his role with the team.

Belichick doesn’t say much about players’ role in training camp. He did reveal that Harris competes to be the Patriots’ No.1. The talented player wowed coaches and players and Belichick would give him a better role in 2021.

“I think Damien’s a player that improved a lot from Year 1 to Year 2,” Belichick said before the Patriots’ second training camp practice. “This year, he’s in a little different role. Now he has an opportunity to compete for a lead spot, and he’s embraced that.”

Harris don’t have to run for this role. He will probably get it. He finished the season with 691 yards in 10 games while averaging 5.0 yards per carry. This average ranked in the top 10 among rushers.

Damien Harris to have a big role with the team

Some are concerned about Harris’ durability. Durability and inconsistency are always a problem. But, Harris knows how to make up for some of the damage. He started and ended the 2020 season on injured reserve. He will probably spearhead the Patriots’ rushing attack again in 2021. Sony Michel, James White, Rhamondre Stevenson, Brandon Bolden, J.J. Taylor, and Tyler Gaffney will hit the backfield.

Harris has incredible work ethic and Belichick respects this. He said that Harris started getting ready for the 2021 season immediately.

“He’s worked hard,” the Patriots head coach said. “He’s been here since the day after the season was over. He has worked as hard as anyone has in the offseason. I’m sure that’ll help his preparation. Heading into this camp, we’ll see how he does. He’s worked extremely hard. He’s a very dedicated player. I’ve been impressed by the commitment he has shown.”

Harris took notice of these comments. Well, the player is only focused on his improvement.

“It’s just about improving,” he said after practice Thursday. “That’s my main motto. Each and every day I come out here, I want to improve my game. How can I be better? How can I help this team? What can I do to make this team better? Can I affect my teammates? How can I become a better leader? How can I become a better football player?

“Every facet, anything I can do, every second I step on this field is just to be better, and to help this team be better.”