Erik Harris hasn’t forgotten about the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
4️⃣ years later and the Organization who gave me a chance is still showing me love. So many long lasting relationships made in my 3 years there. Nothing, but love for my folks in The Hammer and forever grateful @Ticats @ForgeFCHamilton @TimHortonsField pic.twitter.com/37W7Z53mCU
— Erik Harris (@e_harris_31) August 22, 2019
Throwback @Ticats @CFL pic.twitter.com/qTcOWd1ANG
— Erik Harris (@e_harris_31) August 22, 2019
Harris earned his NFL opportunity by providing the Ticats with all-star calibre play for three seasons 2013-2015. While in the Hammer, Harris played 45 games making 79 tackles another 27 on special teams and three interceptions as a standout strong-side linebacker.
The 29-year-old from Los Angeles, California originally signed with the New Orleans Saints in 2016 seeing action in four games prior to tearing his ACL which Harris recovered from in time for training camp in 2017.
The Oakland Raiders signed Harris quickly after the Saints let him go in September. Both the 2016 and 2017 seasons Harris was mainly a special teams player. 2018 was Harris’ best NFL year yet making 49 tackles, defending seven passes and intercepting two balls in 16 games at safety.
During the off-season, the Raiders signed Harris to a two-year contract extension through the 2020 season. Harris could have been a restricted free agent, but he received $2.5 million dollars on a new deal that could pay a total of $6.5 million.
Harris used the chance provided by the Ticats and some help by former teammate, defensive back Delvin Breaux and parlayed it into an NFL career.
