Former New England Patriots running back Damien Harris recently opened up about his challenges during the 2022 season on “The Athletic Football Show” with Robert Mays. Speaking candidly about his time under head coach Bill Belichick and offensive coordinators Matt Patricia and Joe Judge, Harris highlighted some of the difficulties he faced. His willingness to discuss these challenges sheds light on the struggles the Patriots faced during the post-Tom Brady era and the impact of coaching decisions on the team’s performance.
Harris, who was drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, had high hopes for his career with the team. However, things did not go as planned for the talented running back. In his interview with Mays, Harris revealed that he faced numerous challenges during his time with the Patriots, including a lack of playing time and a constantly changing role in the offense.
One of the main issues Harris faced was the strict and demanding coaching style of Bill Belichick. The legendary coach is known for his no-nonsense approach and his high expectations for his players. While this approach has led to great success for the Patriots in the past, it seemed to have a negative impact on Harris and other players during the 2022 season.
Harris also spoke about the changes in the coaching staff, particularly the decision to change Matt Patricia’s role from defensive coordinator to assistant coach. This decision came as a shock to Harris and other players, as Patricia had been a key member of the coaching staff for many years. Harris believes that this change had a significant impact on the team’s performance and contributed to their downfall in the post-Tom Brady era.
Despite these challenges, Harris remained positive and focused on improving his game. He worked hard in practice and was always ready to step up whenever his number was called. However, his limited playing time and constantly changing role in the offense made it difficult for him to showcase his skills and reach his full potential.
Harris’ struggles are a reflection of the larger issues the Patriots faced during the 2022 season. After the departure of Tom Brady, the team struggled to find their footing and maintain their dominance in the league. Many have attributed this to the absence of Brady, but Harris’ comments shed light on the impact of coaching decisions on the team’s performance.
It is clear that the Patriots’ coaching staff, including Belichick, Patricia, and Judge, played a significant role in the team’s struggles. Their strict and demanding approach may have worked in the past, but it seemed to have a negative impact on the team’s morale and performance during the 2022 season. The decision to change Patricia’s role also had a ripple effect on the team, causing confusion and instability.
However, Harris’ interview also highlights the positive aspects of his time with the Patriots. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained grateful for the opportunity to play for such a prestigious organization and learn from some of the best coaches in the league. He also acknowledged the support and guidance he received from his teammates, who helped him stay motivated and focused on his goals.
In conclusion, Damien Harris’ candid interview sheds light on the challenges he faced during his time with the New England Patriots. His willingness to speak openly about these challenges highlights the impact of coaching decisions on the team’s performance and the struggles they faced in the post-Tom Brady era. However, Harris’ positive attitude and determination to improve serve as a reminder that even in the face of challenges, one can still find ways to grow and succeed.
