Denver Broncos: Chris Harris Jr. epitomizes grit

The Denver Broncos struggles continue to occur despite the valiant effort of many players, however, one player stands out the most week in and week out.

The Denver Broncos are undergoing a gut check when it comes to how they want to respond for the rest of the season. Sitting with a 3-5 record, the Broncos would have to essentially run the table in order to make the playoffs.

Statistically speaking, it’s possible; however, the on-field product gives many in Broncos Country an uneasy feeling. While the struggles reveal their ugly face in the win-loss columns, one player on the Broncos’ roster continues to stand out.

Chris Harris Jr. is as scrappy and gritty as they come. Grit is defined as courage and resolve.

Rising into NFL stardom after being signed as an undrafted free agent, Harris still plays the game with a massive chip on his shoulder.

In the 2nd quarter against the Chiefs, Tyreek Hill caught a slant against Bradley Roby and proceeded to cut it back to the left side of the field.

Usually, Tyreek Hill’s speed propels him into the end zone, but Chris Harris Jr appeared from nowhere like a blur making a touchdown-saving tackle.

Several things stood out with ‘Strap’ Harris once again in this game

• Open field tackling
• Closing leverage against speedy wide receivers
• Discipline with his alignment every week

I told Harris last week that he appears to be one of the NFL’s best tackling CB’s, and his response was, “I’m the best tackler for eight years.”

The film doesn’t lie, either. Teams continue to attempt throwing middle screens in the direction of Harris, but they often find themselves losing yards or gaining nothing on the play.

At this point in Harris’ career, losing has become something he hasn’t been used to, but his professionalism and determination provide Broncos fans with a lot of hope.

"“This was one of the hardest losses that I have ever had in the regular season. You fight so hard and do whatever you can to win and it’s really upsetting.”– Chris Harris Jr on how tough Sunday’s loss was (via Broncos PR)"

Harris has been a bright spot for the Broncos 3-5 season before they approach the bye week. DeAndre Hopkins and DeShaun Watkins come to town this Sunday as the Broncos take on the Texans who have been red hot following a 0-3 start.

Look for Chris Harris Jr to match up on Hopkins.