The New England Patriots signed running back Kevin Harris to the 53-man roster from the practice squad and signed defensive back William Cooper to the practice squad, per a release from the team.
Harris is coming back to the Patriots after being drafted in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL draft. He played in five games, starting one of them last season. He tallied 18 carries for 52 yards and a touchdown. He was released by the Patriots at the end of training camp.
Cooper was assigned to the Patriots practice squad on September 13 and was released on September 26. He has bounced around the league a bit. He was originally signed by the Green Bay Packers as a rookie free agent in May.
The addition of Harris is notable considering it gives the Patriots running back depth. Ezekiel Elliott has been carrying the load for the Patriots at the position over the past couple games. Harris has already proven his worth, as he rushed the ball four times for 25 yards and a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday.
Cooper will allow the Patriots to have some flexibility at the defensive back position. J.C. Jackson did not play in Sunday’s game due to a personal matter, and he has since been placed on the reserve/non-football illness list.
Cooper will give the Patriots another option to help fill the void at the defensive back position.
