FOXBORO — After toiling on the practice squad all season, running back Kevin Harris was rewarded with a 53-man roster spot after scoring on an 18-yard touchdown in Sunday’s loss to the Chiefs.

Harris was signed Tuesday when a spot opened up after the Patriots signed cornerback J.C. Jackson to the practice squad. Harris had been on the 53-man roster last season but spent the first 15 weeks this year on the practice squad. He had been elevated twice before getting signed.

“It felt pretty good. I’m blessed to be on there,” Harris said. “I’ve been working hard all year.”

He’s also self-aware enough to realize why he wasn’t getting playing time before Rhamondre Stevenson suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 13. Overall, Harris carried the ball four times for 22 yards Sunday.

“It’s hard to get in there with Zeke (Elliott) and Mondre in there,” Harris said. “When I get the opportunity, I’ve got to run with it.”

Elliott was the only Patriots running back to carry the ball in their Week 14 win over the Steelers despite Harris being on the gameday roster as an elevation. The 2022 sixth-round pick did cut into Elliott’s carries on Sunday, however.

With Stevenson missing practice again this week, Harris could get more run Sunday night against the Broncos.

“I feel good. I’m just ready to go out there and play, show what I got,” Harris said.