Tuff Harris facts for kids

Tuff Chester David Harris, born on January 23, 1983, is a former American football player. He played as a safety, which is a defensive position. Tuff started his professional career in 2007 with the Miami Dolphins. He also played college football for the Montana Grizzlies. Over his career, he was part of teams like the New Orleans Saints and Tennessee Titans.

Tuff Harris's Early Life and Sports

Tuff Harris grew up in Lodge Grass, Montana. This area is also known as the Valley of the Chiefs. He is a member of the Crow Nation, an Indigenous tribe.

High School Sports Achievements

At Lodge Grass High School, Tuff was a talented athlete. He played football, basketball, and baseball. He also ran track. His mother even helped coach the track team.

After his second year, Tuff's family moved to Colstrip. He continued playing sports for the Colstrip Colts. In 2001, Tuff set a state record in Montana. He ran the 100-meter dash faster than anyone else in high school history.

College Football Career at Montana

After finishing high school in 2002, Tuff went to the University of Montana. He played football for the Grizzlies.

Setting Records as a Cornerback

Tuff was a starting cornerback for all four years. He also became a great punt returner. He set new school and Big Sky Conference records. These records included the longest punt return and the most return yards in one game. He also had the most punt return yards in a single season.

Tuff Harris's Professional Football Journey

After college, Tuff Harris became a professional football player. He played for several teams in the NFL and CFL.

Starting with the Miami Dolphins

In 2007, Tuff was not chosen in the NFL draft. But the Miami Dolphins signed him as an undrafted free agent. This means a team signs a player who was not drafted. He joined the team on May 3.

He was later moved to the team's practice squad. A practice squad is a group of players who train with the team. They can be called up to play if needed. Tuff joined the main team on November 14. He played his first NFL game on December 30. The Dolphins later let him go in April 2008.

Time with the New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints signed Tuff in May 2008. However, he was released in July. This was because of ankle injuries.

Playing for the Tennessee Titans

Tuff then signed with the Tennessee Titans in August 2008. He was moved to their practice squad in September. Later, in November, he joined the main team. This happened when other players were injured. The Titans released Tuff in September 2009.

Joining the Pittsburgh Steelers

In September 2009, Tuff joined the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad. He was then signed to the main team in January 2010. The Steelers later released him in August 2010.

Tuff Harris's Personal Life

Tuff is married to Mary (Hasselberg) Harris. Mary is from Staples, Minnesota. They met while they were both students at the University of Montana. Mary played golf, and Tuff played football.

Tuff is a member of the Apsaalooke Nation, also known as the Crow Tribe. He also has Northern Cheyenne family roots.