Green Bay Packers new defensive line player Damon “Snacks” Harrison played Thursday with his new team and could play Sunday’s season finale against the Chicago Bears.
The Packers withdrew Harrison from the Seattle Seahawks resignations Wednesday. It was in the building and was available Thursday.
“This is a big catch for us, especially at the end of the season,” coach Matt LaFleur said Thursday. “That doesn’t happen very often.”
Harrison, an All-Pro in 2016, has been one of football’s most prominent defenders over the past decade. He is now 32 years old, but the Packers are still confident he can add value as a running back as the playoffs approach.
LaFleur wasn’t 100% sure Harrison would play against the Bears, but the door is open for him to make his Packers debut at Soldier Field.
“We’ll see how the week goes,” LaFleur said. “It’s always difficult to ask someone, but again, it’s a real professional, a veteran who has been close and seen a lot. It’s just how fast we can get him acclimated to what we’re trying to do and what we’re asking him to do. “
LaFleur said Harrison is a “problem to block,” which made him a good fit for the Packers ’defensive line, especially against the run.
“I think it can give us a lot when it comes to playing nose to nose,” LaFleur said. “He is a very good defender of the race and he has been for a long time. I’m excited to let him into the building. “
Harrison played six games and 138 snapshots with the Seahawks, who resigned on Tuesday. The Packers tried to add him during the low season and again during the season, but Harrison chose Seattle.
In Green Bay, Harrison will have another chance to play with a Super Bowl contender.
As a true nose attack or technique, Harrison should play a fairly straightforward role on the defensive line.
“Hopefully, it can adapt quickly,” LaFleur said. “What we’ve heard is a very intelligent guy, he obviously has a lot of experience. That usually speeds up the learning curve for these guys. ”