Defensive end Zach Harrison found himself in the Atlanta Falcons locker room earlier this month, attentively listening to every word being spoken. On this particular occasion, Calais Campbell, occupying the locker next to Harrison, engaged in conversation with him, marking one of many interactions they had throughout the season.
Throughout the entirety of the season, Harrison, a third-round draft pick, absorbed valuable insights from the seasoned veterans surrounding him.
It is the combination of these acquired lessons, along with his heightened dedication and improved performance in the latter part of the season, that positions Harrison as a strong candidate for a breakout year in 2024.
Campbell consistently shared nuggets of wisdom throughout 2023, offering tips that only a veteran with 16 years of playing experience could truly comprehend. These tips included techniques for effectively shedding blocks and utilizing the leverage of offensive linemen to gain an advantage. According to Campbell, as Harrison’s career progresses, he will enhance his ability to recognize plays and effectively shed blocks.
Harrison observed Campbell closely as he analyzed film, asking questions and striving to understand Campbell’s approach so that he could apply it himself.
“One of the key aspects is understanding, based on the formations, the type of blocks you’re likely to encounter. This allows you to anticipate the direction of the ball as soon as the offensive players take their first step,” Campbell explained. “Instead of merely reacting to their movements while searching for the ball, you already know where it’s going.”
This was all part of Harrison’s rookie journey, transitioning from Ohio State to the professional level, which entailed a noticeable learning curve but also showcased his growth throughout the season. By the end of the season, he consistently played over 20 defensive snaps per game as a member of Atlanta’s second defensive line unit. In his final three games, he recorded 11 of his 33 tackles and all three of his sacks, unfortunately missing the season finale due to injury.
He demonstrated maturity throughout the season, acquiring knowledge about hand placement and various subtleties from the experienced veterans. Campbell pointed out a significant improvement in Harrison’s ability to shed blocks.
Harrison jokingly remarked that it would take a long time to explain everything he learned as a rookie. Each week, he picked up something new from Campbell, Grady Jarrett, and other teammates.
In the early stages of the season, Harrison recalled that former defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, who is now with the Jacksonville Jaguars, would hold him accountable for his mistakes. However, by the end of the year, those issues were no longer present. Harrison praised Nielsen for his honest coaching approach, stating that Nielsen never deceived him. He appreciated the level of coaching, even when it was challenging.
During team meetings, Harrison would attentively listen to Campbell’s insights on film. As rookies were typically seated in the front, Harrison would find a seat for himself, placing his water bottle on one chair and his backpack on another, giving himself some space. He would then incorporate Campbell’s pointers into his own plans, actively seeking to improve. Although there wasn’t a specific moment when he felt a breakthrough, Harrison experienced continuous growth throughout the process.
“I genuinely believe that I have the potential to make impactful plays in this league,” Harrison expressed. “I strive to be a consistent teammate that my fellow players can rely on.”
This mindset could prove vital for the Atlanta Falcons, as Campbell is a free agent and there are no guarantees of his return. In some ways, Harrison spent a year apprenticing behind Campbell, learning valuable lessons from both Campbell and Jarrett. This included aspects such as film study, body recovery techniques, and their overall approach to game days, off days, and practice.
“I take what they do,” Harrison shared. “And I make it my own as Zach. I do it in my own way.”
