Tommie Harris is taking it a little easier this early in the offseason, mostly because the Bears are making sure he has no reason to hurt his knee before the season actually kicks off. When healthy, Harris has impressed Bears fans with his talent, but he isn’t taking any chances this offseason. Harris said, “No, I’m not surprised about the knee. That’s how injuries go: one minute up, next down. You just hope the up comes faster than the down.”
This season, the Pro Bowl defensive tackle may have to worry about his starting spot after the Bears added Jarron Gilbert. Harris may have one important person on his side, because new assistant head coach/defensive line coach Rod Marinelli said of Harris, “His takeoff is exceptional. His explosion out of his stance and his power … I mean, he is so powerful. And he has such great instincts. To me, he’s an elite player. I think Tommie is one of the few real under-tackles in this whole league who can really dominate from this position and create a great pass rush.”
The starting position will likely work itself out during training camp and the preseason. See who ends up the starter with Chicago Bears tickets from StubHub.