James Harrison says Patriots were his only offer

James Harrison continues to defend himself in the wake of his decision to sign with the New England Patriots after departing the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Harrison noted Friday that he had no choice but to sign with the Patriots in order to keep playing, as they were the only interested party to come forward with an offer.

“There was no other offers,” Harrison said, via Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald.

Harrison also said he didn’t want to retire, as he still wants to compete at the highest level.

“I like to compete,” Harrison said. “That’s my main motivation to go out and play the game.”

Otherwise, Harrison stood by a lengthy statement he’d posted to Instagram, which contained a scathing assessment of how the Steelers had treated him. There may be fireworks if these two sides meet in the playoffs.