Oakland Raiders: Dwayne Harris brings elite presence on special teams
By Brad Weiss
Dwayne Harris was an absolute monster on special teams for the Oakland Raiders in 2018, and he will be back for more in 2019.
One of the Oakland Raiders who really stepped up big-time in 2018 will be back for the 2019 NFL season, as Dwayne Harris re-signed with the team on Monday. Harris was the main man on special teams for the Raiders last season, providing the team with many memorable moments, and having him back instantly bolsters the unit.
Harris came to the Raiders last season via the New York Giants, who cut him after the 2017 season. In 2017, Harris suffered a season-ending foot fracture, one that needed surgery, and the team figured it was best to move on from him.
The 31-year old Harris was cut by the Giants in late March, and the Raiders were quick to pick him up, signing him on April 2, and making him their key punt and kick returner. Not only was Harris outstanding at returning kicks, he also showed incredible awareness in kick coverages, and became a leader on this Raiders team.
A two-time AFC Special Teams Player of the Week in 2018, Harris set an NFL record with a 99-yard punt return for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos on Christmas Eve. Raider Nation certainly wanted him back for another go-around in 2019, and that became reality on Monday.
Matt Schneidman from the Mercury News tweeted out the contract numbers for Harris, which is a one-year deal for $2 million. That deal for a player like Harris is a very low-risk, high-reward for the Silver and Black.
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Getting Harris for only $2 million is a steal in by book, as he brings so much to the table in terms of the Raiders special teams. He also can be a threat on the offensive side of the ball at times, making him quite the bargain at this price point.