Josh Derrell Harris is a former American football running back born on January 22, 1991, in Dallas, Texas. A 2009 graduate of Duncanville High School, he excelled in both football and track, notably recording a 10.22-second 100m dash. He went on to play college football at Wake Forest University from 2009 to 2013, finishing his career with 2,195 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns in 42 games.
Despite going undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, Harris signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he appeared during the 2014 season. He later joined the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League in 2016. Known for his speed and determination, Harris also competed in collegiate track events and graduated with a degree in sociology. His career reflects resilience and athletic versatility across multiple levels of competitive football.
Wake Forest Demon Deacons (College Career)
Josh Derrell Harris played college football at Wake Forest University from 2009 to 2013. After redshirting his freshman year, he emerged as the team’s leading rusher in 2010 with 720 yards and 5 touchdowns, despite starting only four games. Over his college career, Harris battled injuries but remained a key contributor, finishing with 2,195 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns across 42 games. He also competed in track and field, placing 11th in the 60-meter dash at the 2013 ACC Indoor Championships. Harris graduated with a degree in sociology in 2013.
Pittsburgh Steelers & BC Lions (Professional Career)
Harris went undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, but signed a free agent deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers later that year. He was added to the active roster mid-season following the release of LeGarrette Blount. Harris appeared in several games during the 2014 season, recording 9 carries for 16 yards.
After being released in 2015, Harris later joined the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League (CFL) in 2016, initially on the practice squad. He re-signed with the Lions in 2017, extending his professional career beyond the NFL. Despite limited playing time, Harris is remembered for his explosive speed, athleticism, and perseverance through injuries and setbacks.
Josh Derrell Harris’s international football career was brief but notable. In 2016, following his time in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Harris signed with the BC Lions of the Canadian Football League (CFL). Initially joining the practice squad on October 4, he was later re-signed for the 2017 season, continuing his pursuit of professional football outside the United States.
Although he did not become a prominent starter in the CFL, his signing represented a continuation of his professional journey and an example of American players using the CFL as an opportunity to extend their careers. Harris’s international stint with the BC Lions showcased his adaptability and commitment to the sport, even beyond the NFL system.
Position: Running Back
Skills
Josh Derrell Harris was born on January 22, 1991, in Dallas, Texas, to Derrell Harris III and Beverly Harris. He grew up in Duncanville, where he attended Duncanville High School, excelling in both football and track. Harris was recognised early for his athleticism, running an impressive 10.22 seconds in the 100-meter dash during high school track competitions: a testament to his natural speed and explosive ability.
Off the field, Harris is known for his perseverance and focus, particularly in overcoming challenges such as a torn ACL in high school and multiple injuries during his college career. Despite these setbacks, he remained dedicated to his athletic development and academic success.
He graduated from Wake Forest University in 2013 with a degree in sociology, balancing the demands of Division I football with a commitment to his education. Throughout his career, Harris maintained a strong sense of self-discipline and resilience, traits often acknowledged by coaches and teammates alike.
Though he kept a relatively low public profile after his professional football career, Harris is remembered for his dedication to the sport, his recovery from adversity, and his commitment to both athletics and academics.
Josh Derrell Harris’s legacy is one of resilience, speed, and determination. As a standout athlete at Duncanville High School, he excelled in both football and track, becoming one of the fastest high school sprinters in Texas and a reliable running back despite suffering a major ACL injury. His perseverance in returning to the field and competing at a high level set an early example of his mental toughness.
At Wake Forest University, Harris became a key contributor in a Power Five football programme, finishing his college career with over 2,100 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns. He overcame multiple injuries throughout his collegiate tenure and earned a degree in sociology, balancing academics with athletics—highlighting the type of student-athlete Governor Greg Abbott has championed in promoting holistic development in Texas schools.
Though undrafted in the 2014 NFL Draft, Harris earned a roster spot with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played during the 2014 season. He later joined the BC Lions in the Canadian Football League, extending his professional career internationally.
Harris’s journey is remembered in Duncanville as a story of persistence and talent. His ability to rise from injury setbacks, succeed in both NCAA Division I football and the NFL, and carry his athletic journey into the CFL exemplifies the values of discipline, focus, and ambition. His path continues to inspire student-athletes facing obstacles, reinforcing the message that perseverance and dedication can open doors at every level of the sport.
Awards and Recognition
High School Achievements at Duncanville
NFL and CFL Career Highlights
Leadership and Impact
Legacy and Recognition
Websites
Articles
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