Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
The Kansas City Chiefs have a fairly deep roster but there are a number of players participating at OTAs that are hoping to be surprise additions to the final 53-man roster.
One of those players is Demetrius Harris.
Like San Diego Chargers TE, Antonio Gates, Harris didn’t play football in college. He played basketball.
The Chiefs offered Harris a contract as an undrafted free agent.
Back on May 9th, Harris’ agent, Matthew Pope, told the Kansas City Star that the rookie knew he was facing an uphill battle to make the team.
“It’s going to be a bit of a transition process for him but everyone understands that,’’ said Pope. “He’s not going to come in and start right away. We all know that. He’s a long-term project. We’re thinking big picture here.
Less than a month later, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid singled out Harris as a player that has impressed him thus far at OTA practices.
“I’ll tell you what, I’ll give you one – Harris has done a nice job,” said Reid. “He came in as a basketball player and has just gotten better and better every day. You see him out here making plays. I’m sure you guys noticed that. I’m proud of him for the way he’s worked, that’s not an easy transition.”
When asked what his expectations are for Harris, Reid said he just wants to see the rookie continue to learn and use his athleticism.
“To learn, just learn. We saw the athleticism,” said Reid. “John Dorsey, that was his guy and he saw the ability there. He had been a real good high school receiver so you bring him in and give him a shot. That’s what those are all about – those tryout positions. He came in and stayed in and made the most of it so far.”
At 6-foot-7, 230-pounds, Harris certainly has the tools to make it as an NFL tight end. He’ll have to battle with veterans Anthony Fasano and Tony Moeaki, as well as draft pick Travis Kelce, if he wants to make the team.
It could come down to how many TEs the Chiefs decide to carry. KC could always try to stash Harris on the practice squad but if they do so, they make him vulnerable to being stolen by another NFL team.
What do you think, Addicts? Can Harris surpass Tony Moeaki to make the team? Will the Chiefs consider carrying four TEs? Or will Harris end up on the practice squad?