Patriots: N’Keal Harry is blocking so well in training camp it’s causing fights
Patriots wideout N’Keal Harry is impressing in the receiving and blocking game.
We’re a little late to the game here, but that’s because so much as been going on in New England Patriots training camp. N’Keal Harry, who missed a few practices last week and had some fans on high alert since this is a big developmental year for him, returned on Monday and silenced all those doubts.
He was a key figure in the receiving game and provided a sure-handed target for Cam Newton, catching two touchdown passes, one in which he out-dueled JC Jackson. That’s the kind of stuff the Patriots need to see ahead of Week 1.
On top of that, Harry’s been ferocious in the run-blocking game and newly-acquired cornerback Michael Jackson was the victim. Harry dominated Jackson so badly it led to a fight at practice.
N’Keal Harry blocked Michael Jackson into the ground and put a little extra on it. Jackson popped up and took a swing. Things are getting testy.
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) August 25, 2020
Oh baby! Let’s go! That’s some good news for the offense too because all we’ve been hearing over the last couple of weeks is that the defense has been pretty dominant from start to finish each practice. At least the offense is getting worthwhile reps against one of the best units in the NFL, though.
This is the kind of intense competition fans love to see during training camp, especially from a guy like Harry who has a lot to prove after a disappointing rookie year that was derailed by injuries. In just seven games, he caught 12 passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns. He flashed great athleticism, but the Pats will need more production out of the former first-rounder.
There’s some bad blood between N’Keal Harry and Michael Jackson. Almost got into it again during blocking drill. Harry is giving Jackson the business on these blocks. #Patriots
— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) August 25, 2020
It seems Harry has entered the 2020 season ready to rebound and work with a new quarterback in Newton. The second-year wideout is with the Patriots during a very odd time, after the team saw the biggest roster turnover in two decades this past offseason.
But if his motivation and fire tell us anything, it’s that he’ll be working tirelessly to make sure the offense doesn’t take a step back.
