A to Z Sports is reviewing the New England Patriots’ 2022 NFL Draft class ahead of the team’s upcoming organized team activities next week.

Next up in our Patriots 2022 NFL Draft review is an offensive playmaker who’s still trying to regain his pre-injury form.

Round 6, Pick 183: South Carolina RB Kevin Harris

2022 Summary: Harris started his rookie season on the practice squad but wound up signing to the active roster and playing five games with one start. He carried the ball 18 times for 52 yards with one touchdown.

What lies ahead: Harris might as well be battling in a 1-on-1 competition with free-agent addition James Robinson during OTAs, minicamp and training camp as Rhamondre Stevenson’s top backup. Patriots 2022 fourth-round pick Pierre Strong is also in the running, but New England might view him as more of a sub-package option since he’s just 5-foot-11, 205 pounds. Harris, meanwhile, is 5-foot-10, 225 pounds.

Robinson is guaranteed very little in his contract despite a very promising start to his NFL career with a 1,000-yard campaign as a rookie.

Harris was one of the SEC’s best running backs in 2020 when he carried the ball 185 times for 1,138 yards with 15 touchdowns with the Gamecocks. He underwent back surgery before the 2021 campaign and was much less efficient with 655 yards on 153 carries with four touchdowns.

Harris had some moments as a rookie but was mostly limited in his opportunities behind Stevenson and Damien Harris. Damien Harris now plays on the Buffalo Bills, and Robinson isn’t even guaranteed a roster spot based on his contract.

So, Harris has a big summer ahead of him to prove that he not only deserves to make the Patriots’ initial 53-man roster but also earn a role in the offense.

Robinson is more likely to serve as Stevenson’s top backup, but Harris has the talent to make it a difficult decision. It’s hard to envision both Harris and Robinson earning roster spots, but crazier things have happened.

Other 2022 NFL Draft picks: OT Andrew Stueber, G Chasen Hines, DT Sam Roberts

Featured image via Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports