Is N’Keal Harry Still A Patriot?
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As he enters his fourth NFL season with the Patriots, is it still a certainty that N’Keal Harry will be a Patriot going forward? Many are calling for his release, whereas many also see his potential in getting more offensive reps and production in the 2022-23 season.
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Since entering the league in 2019 as the 32nd overall pick, Harry has underperformed and struggled to find a way in the team’s offensive scheme. The star receiver out of Arizona State University has appeared in 35 games over the course of his first three seasons, but has caught just 59 targets for 519 receiving yards. He does have four scores under his belt, but this lack of production has been noticeable as there were high hopes for his breakthrough in the NFL since his rookie season.
Most of Harry’s production has actually come in the run game, as he has been used as a blocker. With Harry’s large 6-foot-4-inch, 225 pound frame, he was crucially used in the block game and as a prop in other offensive formations, but is this little production from the 32nd overall pick worth it? Some think so, and some are calling for a separation between the Patriots and Harry’s camp.
The New England front office declined his fifth year option on May 2, which makes him a free agent. He could be open to other teams, unless the Patriots offer him some kind of contract at a minimum to stay.
I believe this was the right move. Harry’s consistency to struggle even with quarterbacks such as Tom Brady, Cam Newton, and Mac Jones is too hard to overlook. At times he did show potential in “jump-ball” situations, but couldn’t stay on the field consistently because of injury and lack of positive production, especially this past season.
In 2021, Harry appeared in 12 games, but caught just 12 balls for 184 yards. He was also held without a score, and some saw him as a liability when on the field.
The solution to this issue? Find a trade partner. Although it might be hard to do so, Harry is still a first-round talent, and to find a partner who will send over either a player or draft pick could be valuable and beneficial for both sides. A change of scenery is much needed for both sides, and we might see it sooner rather than later.
