Harris attended college at Louisiana-Monroe. After redshirting the 2000 season, he was a four-year starter from 2001–2004.
Professional career
First stint with Bears
As a rookie Harris won the starting role for the free safety position over Mike Green early in the season. In the 2006 preseason, Harris made a statement to a fan, Bryan Lange, that if the Bears made the Super Bowl he would give him a ticket. In January, his statement caused a minor controversy when the Bears did in fact qualify for Super Bowl XLI. Lange stood outside of Bears team headquarters holding a sign saying "Chris Harris, you promised." Harris claimed that he was joking and would not be able to fulfill the request due to family ticket obligations. Ticket brokerage firmsitclose.com later gave Lange a ticket, quieting the controversy. Harris intercepted a pass from Colts quarterback Peyton Manning in the first quarter of the game; however, the Bears would go on to lose the game 29–17.
Carolina Panthers
Harris was traded to the Carolina Panthers on August 2, 2007 for a 2008 5th round draft pick. Harris started 15 games in 2007 finishing with 101 tackles, and also setting a team record as he led the league with eight forced fumbles. In 2008, the Panthers rewarded Harris with a four-year contract extension. He finished the 2008 season with 70 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 interception.
Chicago Bears (second stint)
On April 27, 2010, Harris was dealt back to the Bears in exchange for linebacker Jamar Williams. In his first season back in Chicago, Harris recorded 70 tackles and a career-high five interceptions that he returned for 69 yards. In week 12, he was the first player of the season to intercept a Michael Vick pass as he picked off Vick in Chicago's end zone to help the Bears beat the Eagles 31–26. Following his performance during the 2010 season, Harris received his first All-Pro-selection. On October 27, 2011, Harris was released by the Bears.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions claimed him off waivers on October 28, 2011.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Harris was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 15, 2012. He was later released on November 28. On January 26, 2013, Harris announced his retirement.
Harris joined the San Diego Chargers as their assistant defensive backs coach in 2016, and remained with the team when they moved to Los Angeles and became the Los Angeles Chargers.
Washington Football Team
Harris joined the Washington Football Team as their defensive backs coach in 2020.
