James Harrison was a linebacker for Kent State and started for two seasons before joining the NFL. Due to his size, he was deemed unsuitable for the position of outside linebacker in the NFL, leading to a low draft stock.
In 2002, he was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as a rookie free agent following his failure to be drafted. Despite being cut by the Steelers three times within a span of two years, Harrison remained determined to play in the NFL. Initially, it appeared unlikely that he would achieve his goal, but he refused to give up.
After being cut for the third time, he signed up with the Baltimore Ravens. Subsequently, he was sent to NFL Europe to play for the Rhein Fire by the Ravens.
James Harrison was released by Baltimore, resulting in him being cut four times by two different teams.
Harrison began to doubt the value of his aspiration to become a pro footballer, and the idea of pursuing a career as a veterinarian or maybe even a truck driver crossed his mind.
Clark Haggans' injury during off-season workouts in 2004 led to the Pittsburgh Steelers offering Harrison another chance. Harrison's performance between 2004 and 2006 was rather unremarkable, with him recording 96 solo tackles, 3.0 sacks, and two fumble recoveries.
After being promoted to starting outside linebacker in 2007 by Mike Tomlin, he went on to secure a Defensive Player of the Year award, four consecutive spots on the All-Pro team, and five consecutive Pro Bowl campaigns.
Harrison's interception return during Super Bowl XLIII against the Arizona Cardinals created an enduring moment in the annals of Super Bowl lore.
What Accomplishments Has James Harrison Made in The NFL?
Pro Bowl selection has been awarded to James Harrison on five occasions. Playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers, he emerged victorious in Super Bowls XL and XLIII. In 2008, he achieved the remarkable feat of being the only undrafted player to receive the prestigious Associated Press NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. With 80.5 career sacks, Harrison is the Steelers' all-time leader in this category.
After Harrison retired from the NFL in August 2014, the Steelers were plagued by a series of injuries. After announcing his retirement, Harrison was contacted by the Steelers a few weeks later. He rejoined the team and played for an additional four years, ultimately becoming the leader in all-time sacks.
It was reported that in January 5, 2009, Harrison was declared the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year for the 2008 season, surpassing Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware to take home the award. This achievement made Harrison the initial undrafted player to receive this honor.
Recall also that in 2002, according to teammate and fellow linebacker James Farrior, Harrison lacked experience in the early stages of his career, causing him to abandon plays he found difficult and even request that coaches refrain from playing him during such struggles. This was revealed in an interview with NFL Network.
However, Harrison is now regarded as one of the most powerful defensive players in the NFL. James Harrison is recognized as one of the best pass rushers in the league. Throughout his impressive 15-year professional career, he accumulated 583 solo tackles, 34 forced fumbles, nine fumble recoveries, 84.5 sacks, and eight interceptions.
Also, a report has it that in 2003-2004, Due to his height of six feet and weight of 240 pounds, many teams were hesitant to draft him, believing he was too small to play linebacker and too light for the defensive line.
Despite receiving training camp invitations from a few teams, he remained undrafted. However, the Steelers took a chance on him as an undrafted rookie in 2002, marking him as the first Kent State graduate to play linebacker for the team since the legendary Jack Lambert.