Al Harris, known for his distinctive dreadlocks and aggressive playing style, became a respected cornerback in the National Football League (NFL). Born on December 7, 1974, in Coconut Creek, Florida, Harris attended Ely High School in Pompano Beach, where he first showcased his athletic prowess. He later played college football at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, where he honed the skills that would serve him well in his professional career.
Harris entered the NFL when he was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the sixth round of the 1997 NFL Draft. However, his journey with the Buccaneers was short-lived, as he was waived before the start of the season. He soon found a new home with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he began to establish himself as a reliable player. During his time with the Eagles, Harris played primarily as a backup and special teams player, but he gradually earned more playing time due to his consistent performances.
In 2003, Harris's career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Green Bay Packers. It was with the Packers that he truly came into his own as a starting cornerback. Harris quickly became known for his physical style of play and his ability to shut down opposing receivers. One of his most memorable moments came during the 2003 NFC Wild Card game against the Seattle Seahawks, where he intercepted a pass from Matt Hasselbeck in overtime and returned it for a game-winning touchdown. This play is often remembered as one of the defining moments of his career.
Throughout his tenure with the Packers, Harris was a mainstay in the team's defensive lineup. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2007 and 2008, a testament to his skill and consistency on the field. Harris was also known for his durability, starting in 83 consecutive games for the Packers from 2003 to 2008. His ability to perform at a high level against some of the league's top receivers made him a valuable asset to the Green Bay defense.
In 2009, Harris's career faced a setback when he suffered a severe knee injury, tearing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). This injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season and posed a significant challenge in his career. Despite the injury, Harris worked diligently on his rehabilitation and made a return to the field in 2010. However, his time with the Packers came to an end when he was released mid-season.
Harris continued his NFL journey by signing with the Miami Dolphins in 2010. His stint with the Dolphins was brief, as he played in only three games before being placed on injured reserve due to further complications with his knee. In 2011, Harris signed with the St. Louis Rams, where he played in nine games before announcing his retirement from professional football.
After retiring as a player, Harris transitioned into coaching, bringing his wealth of experience and knowledge to the next generation of players. He served as a coaching intern with the Miami Dolphins and later joined the Kansas City Chiefs as a defensive assistant. Harris's post-playing career in coaching allowed him to stay connected to the sport he loved and to impart his understanding of the game to younger athletes.
Al Harris's football career is remembered for his tenacity, skill, and ability to perform under pressure.
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