New England Patriots ahead of the curve on former first-rounder
New England Patriots former first-round draft pick, N’Keal Harry, suffers a severe ankle injury that may sideline him for a significant amount of time.
Over the years, many have questioned the method and idealogy of New England Patriots HC Bill Belichick. However, in the past and currently, he’s proven to be right more times than he’s been wrong. Recently, it appears he was also correct on former Patriots’ first-rounder N’Keal Harry.
Harry suffered an ankle injury and has no timetable for return, reported NFL insider Jeff Howe for The Athletic. Unfortunately, he was not great for the Patriots and was proving to lean more towards a bust. He’s been hurt three of the four offseasons he’s played in a Patriots uniform. Not to mention, as a Patriot he never completed a full regular season healthy. In fact, he recorded 57 catches for 598 yards and just four touchdowns, according to Pro Football Reference.
“N’Keal Harry has now been hurt in preseason/camp in three of his four seasons: 2019 (ankle), 2021 (shoulder), 2022 (ankle),” tweeted Evan Lazar.
N’Keal Harry has now been hurt in preseason/camp in three of his four seasons: 2019 (ankle), 2021 (shoulder), 2022 (ankle). https://t.co/YXIiF5rZBM
— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) August 7, 2022
N’Keal Harry has no timetable for his return from an ankle injury.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) August 9, 2022
Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to gain consistency and confidence within each other if there are no reps. Naturally, the more understanding of the playbook one has the better chances are that unit will get off to a strong start, however, one can’t complete the goal if they’re inactive.
Belichick maybe does have a heart sending Harry to the Chicago Bears. While many may be confused by the decision, it was one of the best places to help him revive his career. The Bears are the best-case scenario for Harry because with the release of Allen Robinson they simply have no distinguished WRs. Therefore, he has no real competition for snaps making the opportunity ideal for him to show and prove doubters wrong.
Prior to the injury, he seemed to have a great shot at winning the starting spot, possibly becoming the deep-threat for second-year QB Justin Fields. Currently, time will only tell what transpires once Harry returns back to the field of the play.