By Josh KatzowitzA day after 37-year-old Dolphins defensive end Jason Taylor decided that it was time to retire, 37-year-old Rams cornerback Al Harris will follow suit.
Unlike Taylor, who said he’s unsure of what’s next for him, Harris knows exactly what he wants. He wants to coach football, according to Rapid Reporter Ron Clements.
On Wednesday, though, Harris, currently on season-ending injured reserve, thought back on his 14-year career that included two Pro Bowl appearances and a string of strong years playing in the Packers secondary.
“I had an awesome time,” Harris said. “I thank (Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo) for giving me an opportunity to come and help out. I hope I left a positive impression on everybody.”
He also took the time to defend Spagnuolo, who most likely is on his way out as St. Louis’ coach.
“Coaches can only coach,” he said. “I think Spags has done a great job of getting guys to buy in. That’s the hardest part when you’ve got a relatively young team. … Injuries, you can’t help. … My heart goes out to (Spagnuolo). I know how much work he’s put in.”
While Harris was a dependable player in his heyday, his last three years have ended with trips to the IR list. After he tackled Browns receiver Josh Cribbs on Nov. 13, he tore his ACL -- an ACL he’ll have repaired by surgery next month -- Harris decided it was time to say goodbye to pro football.
And he’s not going to change his mind.
“I’m going to come back to coach. I’ve got my mind made up about that,” he said. “Professionally, I hit every single goal I set out for myself. Now it’s time to turn the page and set a new set of goals.”
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