One effective strategy for securing a spot on an NFL team is to offer diverse skill sets that can contribute in various ways. Recently signed veteran defensive back Will Harris appears to have that opportunity. According to reports from NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, Harris has agreed to a one-year deal with the New Orleans Saints. Having spent his previous five NFL seasons with the Detroit Lions since being drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Harris brings experience to the table. Notably, he has spent the last three seasons under the guidance of former Saints defensive backs coach Aaron Glenn, which should ease his transition to the Saints.
During the past season, Harris primarily played in the slot for 115 of his 195 defensive snaps, with a significant role in Weeks 5 and 6. Additionally, he contributed extensively to special teams, participating in 360 snaps across coverage and blocking phases in kicking and punting games. His most impressive season statistically was in 2021, his first year under Glenn’s tutelage, where he started 17 games and recorded 93 total tackles, four passes defended, a forced fumble, and half a sack. Pro Football Reference data shows that he played over 200 snaps each as a free safety, wide corner, and slot corner, along with 195 snaps in the box.
If he secures a spot on the Saints’ defense, Harris can likely expect similar versatile usage. Otherwise, he would provide valuable veteran depth, particularly at safety, an area the team still considers a need following the departure of starting safety Marcus Maye. The Saints have a few options to consider alongside veteran leader Tyrann Mathieu, including second-year safety Jordan Howden and returning safety Johnathan Abram, who filled in for Maye at different points last season. Harris is poised to compete for playing time during the summer, although the Saints might also explore additional options to bolster their safety position.
