The New York Giants signed three defensive backs to reserve/future contracts in January, and after already profiling Joe Burnett, let's take a look at Cary Harris.
Listed at 5-foot-11, 187 pounds, Harris was most recently a member of the Cincinnati Bengals' practice squad. Prior to that, Harris spent one week on the Minnesota Vikings' practice squad after being released by the Buffalo Bills in October 2010.
The Bills drafted Harris out of Southern California in the sixth round (183rd overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft. Harris was a three-year starter at cornerback for USC, and in 2007 and 2008 he was an All-Pac 10 honorable mention player. In the NFL, he has played mostly free safety.
Harris isn't known for his size or raw athleticism, but he has largely built his career off his tough, physical presence. Not surprisingly, his tackling prowess played a significant role in his transition to free safety.
Harris was initially waived during the Bills' final training camp cuts in September 2009, but after remaining on the practice squad until November 20, he was promoted to the active roster. In the Bills' final game of the regular season against the Indianapolis Colts, Harris had two interceptions - one of Peyton Manning and the other of reserve Curtis Painter. For his career, Harris has appeared in six games, recorded five tackles and made those two interceptions for seven yards.
The Giants already have four safeties on their roster in Antrel Rolle, Kenny Phillips Deon Grant and Michael Johnson, as well as seven other defensive backs, so Harris might face difficulty remaining in New York. Furthermore, with Burnett already signed to a reserve/future contract - as well as Woodny Tuerenne, who we'll profile soon - Harris has several significant obstacles to overcome.
Chance of sticking around: Not Likely