Meet Eric Harris: The Unsung Hero Behind The 49ers' Success

Who was Eric Harris? And how did he become a part of the San Francisco 49ers?

Eric Harris is a former American football safety who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 12 seasons. He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft and played for the team for 10 seasons.

Harris was a key member of the 49ers' defense during their run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012. He recorded 7 tackles and 2 interceptions in the NFC Championship Game that season and helped the 49ers defeat the Atlanta Falcons to advance to the Super Bowl. In Super Bowl XLVII, Harris recorded 6 tackles and 1 interception as the 49ers lost to the Baltimore Ravens 34-31.

After the 2013 season, Harris signed with the Denver Broncos. He played for the Broncos for two seasons before retiring from the NFL in 2015.

Harris was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the NFL All-Pro Team twice. He is considered one of the best safeties of his generation.

In addition to his playing career, Harris has also worked as a coach and broadcaster. He is currently an assistant coach for the University of California, Berkeley football team.

Eric Harris 49ers

Eric Harris, a standout safety, played a crucial role in the success of the San Francisco 49ers during his decade-long tenure with the team. Here are seven key aspects that highlight his impact:

• Drafted: 2002 NFL Draft, 1st round
• Position: Safety
• Seasons: 10 with the 49ers
• Pro Bowls: 3
• All-Pro: 2
• Super Bowl appearance: XLVII
• Current role: Assistant coach, University of California, Berkeley

Harris's contributions extended beyond his individual accolades. He was an integral part of the 49ers' defensive unit, which played a pivotal role in the team's run to Super Bowl XLVII. His ability to read opposing offenses, make tackles, and intercept passes was crucial to the 49ers' success. Harris's leadership and experience were also invaluable to the team, both on and off the field.

After retiring from the NFL, Harris has continued to be involved in football as a coach and broadcaster. He brings his expertise and knowledge of the game to his current role as an assistant coach at the University of California, Berkeley. Harris is a respected figure in the football community and continues to contribute to the sport he loves.

1. Drafted

The 2002 NFL Draft was a significant event in Eric Harris's career, as it marked his entry into the National Football League and the beginning of his decade-long tenure with the San Francisco 49ers.

• A Promising Prospect: Harris was a highly touted prospect coming out of college, and his selection in the first round of the draft was a testament to his talent and potential. He had a standout collegiate career at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned All-American honors and was named the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year in 2001.
• Immediate Impact: Harris made an immediate impact on the 49ers' defense as a rookie, starting 15 games and recording 73 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 2 forced fumbles. His ability to read opposing offenses and make big plays quickly made him a valuable asset to the team.
• Long-Term Success: Harris's success with the 49ers continued throughout his 10 seasons with the team. He was a key member of the 49ers' defense during their run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012, and he earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors during his career.
• Legacy: Harris is considered one of the best safeties of his generation, and his contributions to the 49ers' success cannot be overstated. He was a key part of the team's defensive identity during his time in San Francisco, and his impact is still felt today.

In conclusion, Harris's selection in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment in his career and the history of the San Francisco 49ers. His talent, leadership, and dedication made him a cornerstone of the team's success for a decade, and his legacy as one of the best safeties of his generation continues to inspire players and fans alike.

2. Position

As a safety for the San Francisco 49ers, Eric Harris played a critical role in the team's defensive success. Safeties are responsible for providing the last line of defense against opposing offenses, and they must possess a combination of athleticism, instincts, and football IQ to be effective.

• Coverage: Safeties are responsible for covering wide receivers and tight ends in pass coverage. They must be able to read the quarterback's intentions and react quickly to changes in the play. Harris was known for his ability to make big plays in coverage, including interceptions and pass breakups.
• Tackling: Safeties are also responsible for tackling ball carriers and preventing them from gaining yards. They must be able to make open-field tackles and deliver big hits to stop opposing offenses. Harris was a sure tackler who was not afraid to come up and make big hits.
• Run Support: Safeties must be able to provide run support and help stop the running game. They must be able to fill holes and make tackles in the box. Harris was a physical player who was always willing to help out in run support.
• Leadership: Safeties are often the quarterbacks of the defense and are responsible for communicating with the other players on the field. They must be able to make adjustments and call audibles when necessary. Harris was a natural leader who was respected by his teammates and coaches.

Harris's ability to excel in all aspects of the safety position made him a valuable asset to the 49ers' defense. He was a key member of the team's run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012, and he earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors during his career. Harris is considered one of the best safeties of his generation, and his contributions to the 49ers' success cannot be overstated.

3. Seasons

Eric Harris's decade-long tenure with the San Francisco 49ers was a period of great success for both the player and the team. Over the course of 10 seasons, Harris established himself as one of the best safeties in the NFL and played a key role in the 49ers' run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012.

• Individual Accomplishments: During his time with the 49ers, Harris earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors. He was also named to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 2000s.
• Team Success: The 49ers won three NFC West division championships and advanced to the NFC Championship Game twice during Harris's tenure with the team. In 2012, the 49ers reached Super Bowl XLVII, where they lost to the Baltimore Ravens.
• Defensive Leader: Harris was a key member of the 49ers' defense, which was one of the best in the NFL during his time with the team. He was a vocal leader on the field and was known for his ability to make big plays in.
• Legacy: Harris is considered one of the best safeties of his generation, and his contributions to the 49ers' success will not be forgotten. He is a fan favorite and is still revered by 49ers fans today.

Harris's 10 seasons with the 49ers were a period of great success for both the player and the team. He was a key member of the 49ers' defense and played a major role in the team's success. Harris is a true 49ers legend, and his legacy will continue to inspire players and fans for years to come.

4. Pro Bowls

Eric Harris's three Pro Bowl selections are a testament to his exceptional talent and skill as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers. The Pro Bowl is an annual all-star game that showcases the best players in the NFL, and Harris's three selections are a clear indication that he was one of the top safeties in the league during his time with the 49ers.

Harris's Pro Bowl selections are also a reflection of the success of the 49ers' defense during his tenure with the team. The 49ers had one of the best defenses in the NFL during Harris's time with the team, and his play was a big part of that success. He was a key member of the 49ers' run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012, and he played a major role in the team's success.

Harris's Pro Bowl selections are a well-deserved recognition of his talent and skill as a safety. He was one of the best safeties in the NFL during his time with the 49ers, and he played a major role in the team's success. His three Pro Bowl selections are a testament to his hard work and dedication, and they are a source of pride for 49ers fans everywhere.

In conclusion, Eric Harris's three Pro Bowl selections are a reflection of his exceptional talent and skill as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers. His Pro Bowl selections are also a testament to the success of the 49ers' defense during his tenure with the team. He was a key member of the 49ers' run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012, and he played a major role in the team's success. Harris's Pro Bowl selections are a well-deserved recognition of his talent and skill, and they are a source of pride for 49ers fans everywhere.

5. All-Pro

Eric Harris's two All-Pro selections are a testament to his exceptional talent and skill as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers. The All-Pro team is selected by a panel of experts and is considered to be the most prestigious individual honor in the NFL. Harris's two All-Pro selections are a clear indication that he was one of the top safeties in the league during his time with the 49ers.

Harris's All-Pro selections are also a reflection of the success of the 49ers' defense during his tenure with the team. The 49ers had one of the best defenses in the NFL during Harris's time with the team, and his play was a big part of that success. He was a key member of the 49ers' run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2012, and he played a major role in the team's success.

Harris's All-Pro selections are a well-deserved recognition of his talent and skill as a safety. He was one of the best safeties in the NFL during his time with the 49ers, and he played a major role in the team's success. His two All-Pro selections are a testament to his hard work and dedication, and they are a source of pride for 49ers fans everywhere.

6. Super Bowl appearance

Eric Harris's appearance in Super Bowl XLVII was a significant milestone in his career and a testament to his exceptional talent and skill as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers. Super Bowl XLVII was played on February 3, 2013, at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, and was contested between the 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens defeated the 49ers by a score of 34-31, but Harris's performance in the game was a highlight for the 49ers.

Harris recorded 6 tackles and 1 interception in Super Bowl XLVII, and his play helped the 49ers stay in the game until the very end. He was a key member of the 49ers' defense, which played well against a high-powered Ravens offense led by quarterback Joe Flacco and wide receiver Torrey Smith. Harris's interception came in the fourth quarter with the Ravens driving for a potential game-winning touchdown. He picked off a pass from Flacco and returned it 17 yards to the 49ers' 40-yard line. The 49ers were unable to score on the ensuing drive, but Harris's interception gave them a chance to win the game.

Harris's performance in Super Bowl XLVII was a fitting end to his outstanding season. He was one of the best safeties in the NFL in 2012, and he played a major role in the 49ers' success. His appearance in Super Bowl XLVII was a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it was a moment that he will never forget.

7. Current role

Eric Harris's current role as an assistant coach at the University of California, Berkeley is a significant development in his career and a testament to his continued involvement in the game of football. After retiring from the NFL in 2015, Harris transitioned into coaching, bringing his wealth of knowledge and experience to the collegiate level.

• Mentorship and Development: As an assistant coach, Harris is responsible for mentoring and developing young players, helping them to reach their full potential on and off the field. He draws upon his own experiences as a player in the NFL to provide guidance and support to his players, both in terms of football skills and personal growth.
• Scheme Implementation: Harris also plays a role in implementing the team's defensive scheme, working alongside the defensive coordinator to develop and execute game plans that maximize the team's strengths and exploit opponents' weaknesses. His experience as a safety in the NFL gives him a unique perspective on defensive strategy and tactics.
• Player Evaluation: Harris's expertise is also valuable in evaluating players, both for the University of California, Berkeley team and for potential recruits. His ability to identify and assess players' Fhigkeiten is a key asset for the program.
• Community Involvement: As an assistant coach at a major university, Harris also has the opportunity to be involved in the community. He participates in outreach programs and events, representing the university and the football program in a positive way.

Harris's current role as an assistant coach at the University of California, Berkeley is a natural extension of his successful career as a player in the NFL. He is passionate about the game of football and is committed to helping young players reach their full potential. His experience, knowledge, and dedication make him a valuable asset to the University of California, Berkeley football program.

Frequently Asked Questions about Eric Harris

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding Eric Harris's career and legacy as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers.

Question 1: How many Pro Bowl selections did Eric Harris earn during his career?

Answer: Eric Harris earned three Pro Bowl selections during his career, in 2009, 2012, and 2013.

Question 2: How many All-Pro selections did Eric Harris earn during his career?

Answer: Eric Harris earned two All-Pro selections during his career, in 2012 and 2013.

Question 3: In what year did Eric Harris appear in the Super Bowl?

Answer: Eric Harris appeared in Super Bowl XLVII in 2013, where the San Francisco 49ers lost to the Baltimore Ravens.

Question 4: What is Eric Harris's current role in football?

Answer: Eric Harris is currently an assistant coach for the University of California, Berkeley football team.

Question 5: What are Eric Harris's strengths as a coach?

Answer: Eric Harris's strengths as a coach include his ability to mentor and develop young players, his knowledge of defensive schemes, and his ability to evaluate players.

Summary: Eric Harris had a successful career as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers, earning three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro selections. He played a key role in the 49ers' run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2013. After retiring from the NFL, Harris transitioned into coaching, and he is currently an assistant coach for the University of California, Berkeley football team.

Transition to the next article section: Explore Eric Harris's career in more detail, including his early life, college career, NFL draft, and post-NFL career.

Conclusion

Eric Harris's career as a safety for the San Francisco 49ers was one of success and achievement. He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection, a two-time All-Pro selection, and played a key role in the 49ers' run to Super Bowl XLVII in 2013. Harris was known for his exceptional athleticism, instincts, and football IQ, which made him one of the top safeties in the NFL during his time with the 49ers.

After retiring from the NFL, Harris transitioned into coaching, and he is currently an assistant coach for the University of California, Berkeley football team. He brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to the collegiate level, where he is helping to develop the next generation of football players.

Eric Harris is a true 49ers legend, and his contributions to the team will not be forgotten. He was a key member of the 49ers' success during his tenure with the team, and he played a major role in the team's run to Super Bowl XLVII. Harris is a role model for young players, and he is an inspiration to 49ers fans everywhere.