Damon Harrison practices with Packers on Thursday, receives jersey number 98

The newest Green Bay Packers player wasted no time in getting to Wisconsin and suiting up for his first day of work with his new team. Defensive tackle Damon Harrison, whom the Packers claimed on waivers on Wednesday, was in uniform and on the field when the team practiced on Thursday for their second day of work in preparation for Sunday’s regular season finale against the Chicago Bears.

Harrison’s quick turnaround is exciting news for a Packers defense that could use some veteran help in the middle of the defense. Harrison is primarily a nose tackle who should suit up in the Packers’ base defense, primarily to play a run-stuffing role. However, his presence in the center of the line may free up Kenny Clark to move out to a 3-technique alignment on occasion.

Head coach Matt LaFleur addressed the addition in a Zoom call with reporters before practice, confirming that Harrison was in the building at that time. LaFleur even said that he may be able to suit up for Sunday’s game against the Bears, though this may depend on how quickly he picks up the Packers’ defensive calls this week.

The presence of the man nicknamed “Snacks” at practice should allay any lingering concerns about his willingness to play for the Packers down the stretch this season. Harrison acknowledged immediately following news of his waiver claim that the Packers would be on a short list of teams he would be willing to play for, but this quick change to get to Green Bay and participate within 24 hours of being claimed speaks volumes. It is also notable that the NFL’s COVID-19 protocols allow Harrison to practice immediately because he has been receiving daily tests during his time with the Seahawks.

Harrison will wear number 98 with the Packers, the same number he donned with the New York Giants and Detroit Lions from 2016 through 2019. Harrison wore 59 with the Seahawks.