Lions Will Harris Defends Himself Against Critics

Do Lions fans have it wrong about cornerback Will Harris?

Detroit Lions cornerback Will Harris has likely heard the criticism of his play. 

Each year, a segment of Lions' supporters wonders how the young defensive back remains on the 53-man roster. 

The coaching staff has publicly praised the 27-year-old cornerback due to his reliability and willingness to play multiple positions. 

"Will's gonna be where he's supposed to be when he's supposed to be there. He's a four-corps guy for us," Dan Campbell explained to reporters earlier at training camp. 

During his stint in Detroit, Harris has played safety, nickel cornerback and on the outside. 

After reading on social media fans questioning what the team sees in him, Harris took to social media to express the criticism appears one-sided. 

"That answer your question? Bc y’all only refer to PFF and coverage stats when it’s convenient," Harris noted. "The coverage grade on PFF was what it was last year and y’all shrugged it off. Get a TFL, PBU, Sack, forced fumble, etc ... hear nothing. Give up one pass -- hear it all."

Supporters explained their point of view, revealing their frustration with the former 2019 third-young pick. 

One critic posted bluntly, "Will, I have watch every play of every Lions game since well before you started college. Do I know every stat relating to your coverage snaps, no. But what I do know is that anytime I see you in the game, your about three steps behind your man. But hey, shout out to your closing speed."

In the end, players want fairness in the criticism of their play. 

Harris indicated, "Does “anytime” include reps when I’m in good coverage or get a PBU? Or you look away from those plays when you’re watching? Because from being in the games myself, I can recall many times when that’s the case."

That answer your question? Bc y’all only refer to PFF and coverage stats when it’s convenient. The coverage grade on PFF was what it was last year and y’all shrugged it off. Get a TFL, PBU, Sack, forced fumble, etc.. hear nothing. Give up one pass— hear it all.

— Will Harris (@Jamahl) August 30, 2023

I see where you’re going with this. Who got burnt by 2s or 3s? I gave up one ball to thielen in the last game of preseason. We battled in the slot. Drive before that I had a PBU on a similar route he did. That was there 1 offense on the field brother.

— Will Harris (@Jamahl) August 30, 2023