Alabama football started two freshmen at inside linebacker for the 2019 season and though Shane Lee had some quality moments, fans of the Crimson Tide could not help but to be drawn toward Christian Harris.
Not only was he one of nine true freshmen to start, but Harris also did things each week in terms of showing progress. The four-star from Baton Rouge (La.) was among the team leaders for total tackles (63) and tackles for loss (7.5), while posting five quarterback hurries, one pass breakup, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.
His 7.5 tackles for loss led all freshmen defenders in the Southeastern Conference.
Harris earned Freshman All-SEC honors from the league’s coaches and was a Freshman All-American, according to USA Today and ESPN.
When he is asked about Harris, head coach Nick Saban refers to him as a ‘conscientious’ young man.
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He wants to make the right play and best decision on the field at all times.
At University Lab School, Harris had a knack for being around the football. He played wide receiver, safety and was a kick returner for a program that won 26 consecutive games – including back-to-back state championships – in 2017 and 2018. As good as he was last season, Harris expects to be even better this year.
With the return of Dylan Moses at middle linebacker, Harris can be in his natural role of weakside linebacker and attack the ball.
His experience at receiver and defensive back provided him with exceptional coverage skills, acceleration and footwork.
In the time he spent returning kicks, Alabama has an athlete that works well in space.
On Monday, Harris decided to get Tide fans excited by releasing a hype video to Twitter.
The one-minute clip showed all his highlight moments — including a pair of fumble recoveries versus SEC opponents, Arkansas and Auburn.
Youngin’ on fire, I ain’t passin’ up the torch? pic.twitter.com/8kcXnQI6rA
— Christian Harris (@Charris_36) July 13, 2020
Lee will be much improved this fall, but no one is taking the torch from Harris right now.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
