Upon being hired by the Washington Commandos in 1987, Harrison became the second black head coach in modern professional football history (after Willie Wood).

[1] He earned varsity letters in three years (1961–1963) and recorded 27 receptions for 350 yards as an end on the football team.

[9] He spent six years with Tennessee before being named wide receivers coach of the Atlanta Falcons in the National Football League (NFL) on February 16, 1983.

[11] In 1987, Harrison accepted a position as head coach of the Washington Commandos in the Arena Football League (AFL).

[12] The move made him the second black head coach in modern professional football history, after Willie Wood.