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Former Personal Trainer Helped Unearth James Harrison For Steelers: ‘I Was The One That Made The Call’

Related Topics: James Harrison, Chip Smith

Before James Harrison went on to have a remarkable career in the NFL, going from undrafted free agent, NFL Europe player, cut multiple times and then turning into the Defensive Player of the Year and a potential Hall of Famer, he was largely an unknown to the NFL.

Coming out of Kent State in 2002, Harrison was undersized and a bit light overall, which had teams concerned about his ability to play defensive end or even outside linebacker.

Ultimately, the Steelers gave him a shot ahead of the 2002 season, putting him in the NFL which led to his winding path to stardom, one that is one of the best undrafted tales ever.