The Lions wrapped up their disappointing 2019 campaign Sunday, and it might’ve been the last ever game for one notable veteran. Speaking to reporters after their loss to Green Bay, Damon Harrison said he’s seriously considering retiring, via Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.
‘Snacks’ as the defensive tackle is affectionately known, said he’s been dealing with several injuries and might have to have surgery. “I got too much pride, man. I’ve been doing this too long. So if I can’t be the player that I’m used to being, I think my teammates deserve better, my family deserves better … I never cheated the game a day of my life, man,” an emotional Harrison said as he reportedly fought back tears.
“My mind’s still telling me I can do it,” he said, “but my body’s just not good.” Harrison had been with the Giants for the past few seasons before he was traded to Detroit last year. He played great after initially joining the Lions, and was one of the league’s better run stuffers for a while. A first-team All-Pro selection in 2016, his play had fallen off significantly this year as he battled injuries.
“But if I do walk away, I’m not ashamed,” he continued. “I don’t feel bad because I gave it everything I had, even when it wasn’t good enough.” Harrison is under contract for $8.5MM next season, but the Lions might not be inclined to bring him back at that price. The 31-year-old signed with the Jets as an undrafted free agent back in 2012, and if this is it for him, he carved out a heck of a career.
Absolutely loved rooting for Snacks in NYG. Great player and leader. Was always honest, accountable, and respectful to his teammates, the media, and the fans. Wish the best for him no matter his decision.
Snacks say it ain’t so
A couple boxes of chips and 3 boxes of donuts and snacks will be ready to go. If not and he retires he will blow up to about 450 lbs. Yikes
Many ex football players balloon up because they are required to carry the heavy weight. These players should immediately go on a post career weight loss treatment immediately after retiring or they will balloon up & it becomes a life threatening issue. He could lose 150 pounds & take the pressure off his knees, back, and all his organs. Otherwise high blood pressure & high cholesterol will be the next battle he faces.
$5M of dead money if he goes.
Playing for that awful organization has broken many players.