DT Damon Harrrison discusses the 2016 season and goals for next year:
If there was one constant for the Giants in 2016, it was the play of their defense and the leadership brought on by new Giants defensive tackle Damon "Snacks" Harrison.
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Harrison, who signed as a free agent last offseason, became a staple in the Giants' run defense all season. Harrison contributed 86 combined tackles, 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble while becoming a key voice in the locker room.
"For a guy like me, learning plays is never a problem," Harrison said. "I wanted to understand the scheme and build something with the guys around me so I can make myself a better player as well as make them a better player. I knew that wasn't going to be a problem coming in."
Although the Giants finished with the No. 2 scoring defense in the NFL, Harrison believes there is still plenty of work to be done.
"We weren't number one in anything, so there is always room for improvements in that regard," Harrison said. "Just have to get better. Our run defense, overall defense and points allowed, we were pretty good. It could've been better -- creating turnovers, scoring touchdowns and causing havoc."
Harrison went on to be named to the Associated Press 2016 NFL All-Pro team for the first time in his career, an honor that he is extremely proud of after five seasons in the league
"All-Pro is something different," Harrison said. "That's the guys who know the game inside and out. They get a chance to not only view you from afar but watch you up close. They know what they're looking for. They're not just looking for the guys that are getting the sack numbers and the guys that are getting the interceptions. They know when they see good football being played. It's nice to be recognized."
Coming in as a free agent, Harrison did not know what to expect. But following a 2016 campaign filled with success, the Giants organization was exactly what he was looking for.
"I enjoyed my time here," the former Jet said. "Every single guy on this team I've built something with. From defense to offense, special teams, the equipment guys, everything. It was more than I envisioned. I was scared when I got here. I didn't know what to expect. It didn't end the way that we wanted it but I enjoyed it."
