3 New England Patriots that will have a breakout season this year

Damien Harris

After being selected 87th overall in the 2019 NFL Draft, Damien Harris was essentially a healthy scratch all season for the Patriots in their crowded offensive backfield last year. In fact, Harris — the elusive bull of a runner out of Alabama — unfortunately only saw action in two games last season as a rookie.

It has since become obvious that Harris was drafted for one specific reason… the future. Harris is a versatile running back that can offer the New England Patriots whatever they need and expect from a running back. From running through the tackles to receiving and blocking — and just being a well-rounded utility player — Harris is the player who can do it all.

I have been on record saying that the Patriots are interested in surrounding quarterback Jarrett Stidham with young and familiar players to get him more comfortable in progressing into a starter and commanding his offense.

In doing so, the Pats drafted Harry last year (just like Stidham) and also signed undrafted free agent wide receiver Will Hastings, who played at Auburn with Stidham.

It’s worth mentioning that Harris and Stidham grew up together in Kentucky and learned the fundamentals of football while playing on the same youth football team. I believe the Patriots essentially preserved Harris’ body by benching him last year with the hopes of pairing him with Stidham for the near future.

With that said, James White, Rex Burkhead, and Brandon Bolden all become unrestricted free agents next season, leaving the Patriots with a strong and versatile running duo of Michel and Harris. And with the recent reports of Michel undergoing offseason foot surgery, the opportunity for Harris opens up immensely this season.