Patriots: Why UCF’s Jacob Harris could be perfect fit for offense

What’s the usual universal characteristic that makes for a true Bill Belichick player?

Versatility.

Every New England Patriots fan knows that. However, that’s largely been reserved for the defensive side of the ball in recent years.

But if this offseason has been any indication, Belichick is looking for the same on offense.

Jonnu Smith and Hunter Henry aren’t the truest of tight ends. They’re just as lethal in the passing game as your above-average wide receiver. They’re also big bodies who can lay blocks on linebackers.

So when Pats fans caught wind of the team meeting with UCF’s Jacob Harris, everyone figured Belichick was primed to create an offense that is a matchup nightmare.

No, they don’t have a true No. 1 wide receiver, but all of Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne have proven the ability to hold their own. They can terrorize defenses underneath and bail Newton out when he’s on the run.

UFC’s Jacob Harris could allow the Patriots to create a true hybrid offense.

Harris could potentially profile as that No. 1 wide receiver and … also line up at tight end? Imagine all of the options offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels will have at his fingertips if the Patriots get their hands on the 6-foot-5, 210-pound prospect, who averaged an insane 20.1 yards per reception in 21 games over the last two years with the Knights.

Harris towered over defensive backs in college and was moved all over the field in UCF’s offense. He can be a red zone threat. He can beat defenders over the middle. He’s got potential to be a possession receiver.

If he can be used in two of those roles, that’s a win for Belichick and McDaniels, who desperately needs to be more creative on offense after their one-dimensional showing in 2020.

We’ll give him a pass for not having the personnel. Now he has more than enough tools to work with and the potential of the team adding Harris via the draft.

But don’t get your hopes up, because Harris’ cover as an “under-the-radar” prospect has been blown after his sensational pro day.

The silver lining here is that we could see a bit of a change in philosophy in the way the Patriots draft, which has clearly been a problem over the last decade (for the most part). It’s time to get playmakers — not just football players — that fit Belichick’s mold.

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