Devin Harper Bio
Devin Harper is an American professional football linebacker who was born on May 13, 1998, in Austell, Georgia. He played college football for the Oklahoma State Cowboys and was drafted in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. Harper has also played for the Cincinnati Bengals and is currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated notable skills as a linebacker as well as a competitive edge that started in high school.
Early Life and Background
Devin Harper attended Karns High School in Karns, Tennessee, where he was a two-way player, excelling as both a running back and linebacker. During his junior year in 2015, he was part of a winless team, but he made a significant impact as a senior in 2016. That year, he contributed to a 3-7 record while collecting impressive statistics, including 1,403 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns, along with 40 tackles. His performance earned him All-District and All-Knoxville Interscholastic League honors. In addition to football, Harper also participated in basketball and track, leading his basketball team to the sectional round of the District 3-A Playoffs and receiving District 3-AAA Player of the Year honors.
Path to American Football
After high school, Devin Harper accepted a football scholarship from Oklahoma State University, where he intended to play linebacker. He began his college career as a redshirt freshman in 2017, primarily contributing on special teams with five tackles and one blocked punt. As a sophomore in 2018, he appeared in all 13 games, recording 44 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, and an interception returned for a touchdown. Harper’s junior year in 2019 was challenging as he played through an injury but still managed to achieve 34 total tackles and three sacks. His senior year in 2020 saw him post 37 tackles and earn All-Big 12 academic honors. In his super senior season in 2021, he became a full-time starter and team captain, finishing with 96 tackles and six sacks, showcasing his growth and development as a player.
Devin Harper Career
Early Career (2022-2023)
Devin Harper was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, being the 193rd overall pick. He began his professional career with the Cowboys, where he was initially inactive for four games due to an Achilles injury. In 2023, after a teammate’s injury opened up opportunities, Harper played in the first three games of the season, primarily on special teams, where he recorded two defensive tackles and one special teams tackle. However, he was waived by the Cowboys on September 28, 2023, as the team made roster adjustments.
Breakthrough (2023-2024)
Following his time with the Dallas Cowboys, Harper was claimed off waivers by the Cincinnati Bengals on September 29, 2023. He appeared in six games for the Bengals, contributing two special teams tackles, but was waived on August 27, 2024. Shortly thereafter, on August 29, 2024, Harper signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers practice squad, marking another step in his professional journey. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Steelers on January 14, 2025, indicating the team’s commitment to his development.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Devin Harper has shown resilience and determination, transitioning from college standout to professional player. His notable achievements include being a team captain in college and contributing to significant games, such as the 2022 Fiesta Bowl, where he helped lead his team to victory. Harper’s journey reflects his dedication to the sport and his potential for future success.
Devin Harper Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Devin Harper has not yet received any formal award nominations, but his contributions on the field have been recognized at various levels during his college career.
Devin Harper Awards Won
Devin Harper has not yet won any formal awards in his professional career, but he has received recognition for his performances during his college years, including All-Big 12 academic honors.
Devin Harper Family
Devin Harper was born to parents Kevin and Alacia. He is the older brother of Thomas Harper, who plays safety for the Detroit Lions. Harper has a son named Ryder, born on August 9, 2019, adding a personal dimension to his life as he balances his professional career with fatherhood.
Personal Life
Devin Harper maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing primarily on his football career and family. His experiences as a father and his relationship with his family are important aspects of his life outside of football.