Former Statesmen Harrison Named AP All-Pro

Former William Penn Statesman Damon Harrison. (file photo Ken Allsup/Oskaloosa News)

Oskaloosa–Damon Harrison’s career took another tick upward Friday as he was named to The Associated Press’ NFL All-Pro Team.

The former Statesmen collected his first All-Pro award as a first-team interior lineman, joining Aaron Donald of the Los Angeles Rams as the only two first-team players at that position.

Harrison, who is in his fifth year as a pro and first with the New York Giants, ranks as one of the, if not the best, run-stopper in the league. The defensive tackle has tallied 86 tackles (55 solos) this year in addition to 2.5 sacks and one forced fumble. He will be competing in his first professional playoff game Sunday against Green Bay.

Harrison has already managed at least five tackles in eight games this season. He has started every game (64 straight) since 2013 (when he played for the New York Jets), compiling 279 total tackles (160 solos) with four sacks, three pass deflections, and two forced fumbles.

“We are extremely excited and proud of Damon for being named to the NFL All-Pro team,” William Penn Head Coach Todd Hafner said. “We know he has worked extremely hard to get to where he is. He also continues to work every day to be even better. So again, congratulations to him and we are not only very proud of the player he has become, but just as proud of the person he has become!”