Jacory Harris attends Dolphins camp, believes things will work out for him in NFL

DAVIE — The simple fact he played at the University of Miami gives quarterback Jacory Harris an abundance of resources when it comes to learning about the NFL.

"We always talk to Andre Johnson. Jimmy Graham. Ed Reed. Those guys are like brothers to us. They take care of us," Harris said on the first day of Dolphins rookie camp.

But when it came to his situation, the perfect resource turned out to be former Hurricane running back Graig Cooper, who went undrafted last year but was invited to the Philadelphia Eagles training camp, stuck until the final cut, then was re-signed after the season ended.

"He was in the same situation as I am," Harris said. "He told me just to be patient. Things may not work out the way you want at first, but as long as you keep trusting and believing in yourself then things are going to work out."

Harris was not selected in last weekend's NFL Draft but is one of five ex-Hurricanes at this three-day camp, joining third-round pick and defensive end Olivier Vernon, fourth-round pick and running back Lamar Miller and a pair of free agents, defensive back Mike Williams and guard Joel Figueroa.

In three-plus seasons as UM's starter, Harris threw 70 touchdown passes and 48 interceptions and became an easy target for disgruntled Hurricanes fans.

Harris, who struggled with some throws Friday, is no better than fifth on the depth chart behind veterans Matt Moore and David Garrard, first-round pick Ryan Tannehill and practice squad holdover Pat Devlin. Still, he's getting exposure, and who knows where that could lead.

"It's a great opportunity," said Harris, from Miami Northwestern High School. "The Dolphin coaches gave me an opportunity to come out and show my skills, and that's what I'm trying to do. Just come out, learn about everybody, and have fun."


(palmbeachpost.com)