David Harris, American football player

David Charles Harris, born on January 21, 1984, is a notable figure in American football history, recognized for his impactful career as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL). His journey from a standout collegiate athlete to a remarkably durable and consistent professional player marks him as a significant presence on the gridiron, primarily for the New York Jets.

Collegiate Excellence at the University of Michigan

Before making his indelible mark in the professional ranks, Harris honed his exceptional skills at the University of Michigan, competing vigorously for the esteemed Michigan Wolverines football program. During his tenure from 2003 to 2006, he distinguished himself as a formidable presence in the heart of the defense. Harris consistently showcased his tackling prowess, demonstrating an innate ability to diagnose plays and pursue ball carriers with relentless efficiency. He notably led the Wolverines in tackles during both his junior (amassing 108 tackles in 2005) and senior (recording 118 tackles in 2006) seasons, solidifying his reputation as a defensive cornerstone. His leadership capabilities were further acknowledged when he was named a team captain in 2006, culminating in a prestigious First-Team All-Big Ten selection that year, which cemented his status as one of the conference's premier defensive players and a top prospect for the NFL Draft.

NFL Draft and a Decade of Dominance with the New York Jets

Harris's impressive collegiate performance naturally drew the keen attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the New York Jets in the second round of the highly anticipated 2007 NFL Draft. As the 59th overall pick, he was immediately poised to become a foundational piece for the Jets' defensive scheme. He swiftly established himself as an indispensable inside linebacker for the franchise, serving with distinction for a full decade, from the 2007 season through 2016.

Throughout his celebrated career with the Jets, Harris was renowned for his remarkable consistency, exceptional durability, and a relentless pursuit of the ball carrier that earned him widespread respect across the league. He recorded an astounding 1,087 total tackles during his tenure in green and white, a franchise record that profoundly underscores his significant and sustained impact on the team's defensive efforts. His reliability was legendary, as he started an incredible 158 out of 160 games played for the Jets, earning him a reputation as an "Iron Man" in one of football's most demanding positions. His stellar play was officially recognized when he was named Second-Team All-Pro in 2009, a testament to his elite performance and standing among the league's top linebackers. Harris was a pivotal force in the formidable Jets defenses, particularly under Coach Rex Ryan, contributing significantly to the team's memorable back-to-back appearances in the AFC Championship Games in 2009 and 2010, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest levels of playoff competition.

After his long and productive run with the Jets, Harris briefly joined the New England Patriots for the 2017 season, playing in 10 games and contributing to their Super Bowl LII run, before officially concluding his distinguished professional football career.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Harris

What position did David Harris play in the NFL?
David Harris primarily played as an inside linebacker throughout his distinguished career in the National Football League.
Which NFL teams did David Harris play for?
David Harris spent the vast majority of his NFL career, a full decade from 2007 to 2016, as a cornerstone of the New York Jets' defense. He also played a brief stint with the New England Patriots in 2017.
What was David Harris known for during his NFL career?
David Harris was widely recognized for his exceptional durability, remarkable consistency in tackling, and his pivotal role as a defensive leader. He holds the New York Jets' franchise record for total tackles and was a key component of their strong defensive units that reached multiple AFC Championship Games.
When was David Harris drafted into the NFL?
David Harris was selected by the New York Jets in the second round of the 2007 NFL Draft, as the 59th overall pick.
What were David Harris's achievements in college football?
At the University of Michigan, David Harris was a two-time team tackles leader (2005, 2006), a team captain in 2006, and was named First-Team All-Big Ten in his senior season.