Damien Harris Fantasy Outlook Trending in Right Direction Ahead of Week 3 NFL Debut for Patriots

The New England Patriots announced this morning that pass-catching running back James White will be inactive today due to his wife being in labor. This opens up a game day roster spot and plenty of snaps in the backfield for New England. After being spotted on the field in pregame warmups, rookie running back Damien Harris looks to be active and set to make his NFL debut today.

Coming out of Alabama, Harris was a third-round draft selection by New England. Seeing his first bit of NFL action today, the rookie could be in line for some carries behind lead back Sony Michel, though White's absence should benefit Rex Burkhead more than anyone else.

We know the Patriots like to be creative with how, or even when, they use their running backs. They are not likely to activate Harris today without the intention of getting him snaps, and he could also be in for some significant garbage time work if the game gets out of hand with the Pats sitting as massive favorites against the New York Jets.

Harris is a risky play with a real chance at putting up a near-zero-point fantasy performance. If you're desperate for a running back in a deep league this week, though, the blowout potential in this game does give Harris some intriguing upside as a high-risk boom-or-bust option.

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