Walt Harris, a retired NFL Pro Bowler, enjoyed an impressive 13-year career in the league. Selected by the Chicago Bears as the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft, Harris went on to play for four franchises: the Chicago Bears, Indianapolis Colts, Washington Commanders, and San Francisco 49ers. His career highlights include earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week and Month honors in 2007, as well as being nominated for the 2007 Pro Bowl.
Harris’s legacy extends beyond the NFL. He was inducted as an SEC Legend in 2012, enshrined in the Mississippi State Hall of Fame in 2017, and honored in Mississippi State’s Ring of Honor in 2018. He also holds the school’s interception record.
Since retiring from professional football, Harris has seamlessly translated his on-field discipline and leadership into the realms of spirituality, family, friendships, and community service—continuing to make an impact far beyond the game.
Harris served on the Former Players Atlanta Chapter board for four years and has now completed two consecutive terms as President. He also sits on the Advisory Board of the Former Players and was elected to serve on the Executive Committee.
He is the founder of Official Pro Players Inc. (OPP), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting professional athletes across all sports, fostering social engagement, responsibility, and community involvement. Harris established OPP to support, unite, and empower athletes within their local communities while raising funds for various global causes.
As an organization, OPP brings together both current and retired male and female athletes, hosting an annual virtual mentorship Huddle for boys. Harris is also a passionate advocate for domestic violence victims, standing firmly against this injustice and actively working to support those affected.
Driven by his commitment to faith, accountability, and brotherhood, Harris leads a weekly accountability and prayer call alongside his Men Matter initiative. This movement encourages men to reclaim leadership roles within their families and communities, reinforcing the message that Men Do Matter.
Beyond his roles as an accomplished athlete, visionary, and philanthropist, Harris finds his greatest fulfillment in being a devoted husband to his wife, Tasheekia Harris, and a proud father of six.