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Broncos' Chris Harris Jr. Says He's Focused on Raiders Game Ahead of Free Agency
December 24, 2019
Sunday's game could be Chris Harris Jr.'s final appearance in a Denver Broncos uniform as his contract is set to expire at the end of the season, but the cornerback is keeping his focus on the Oakland Raiders, not his looming free agency.
"Man, I'm just so thankful to the Broncos. I had a great nine years here, whatever happens happens," Harris told reporters Tuesday (around the 0:54 mark). "I'm just focusing on finishing the year strong and do whatever I can to into the game with a clear mind and play the best I can."
Since signing with Denver as undrafted free agent out of Kansas in 2011, Harris has spent his entire nine-year career with the team. He was a key member of the Broncos' "No Fly Zone" defense, which powered the way to the franchise's third Lombardi Trophy in 2015-16.
Harris has earned four Pro Bowl selections as well as one All-Pro nod in his career.
As he was set to enter the final year of his current contract, Harris requested either a new deal or a trade back in April. He did not wind up landing a multi-year deal, but he did receive a sizable bump in pay, with the Broncos upping his 2019 salary to $12.05 million from $8.9 million.
In May, he let it be known that he was looking to get paid come free agency:
Through 15 games, the 30-year-old defensive back has recorded 54 total tackles, his most since 2016. He also has six pass deflections, one interception and one forced fumble.
Denver (6-9) will miss the postseason for the fourth consecutive season.
It's not clear if the Broncos will look to bring Harris back or if they will look for a younger and/or cheaper alternative. If the two sides go their separate ways, there should be no shortage of interest in Harris on the open market:
This weekend will give Harris one final opportunity to show all 32 teams what he can do on the field.