Patriots Activate First-Round Pick N'Keal Harry From Injured Reserve
By Mark Powell
The Patriots receiving corps is completely revamped after Josh Gordon was claimed by the Seattle Seahawks. Yet, as is often the case, maybe New England knew something we didn't.
While the Pats are missing a clear downfield threat with Gordon's absence, they'll get a boost in that department with the addition of N'Keal Harry.
More offense for the #Patriots: They are activating rookie WR N'Keal Harry off Injured Reserve, source said. The first-rounder fits into a remade receiver group.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 2, 2019
Harry is an elite receiving talent, as the Patriots took the 6-4 behemoth out of Arizona State with the 31st pick in April's NFL Draft. At Arizona State, Harry struggled to receive consistent targets at times due to inept quarterback play. Still, his numbers spoke to some elite route-running, and an ability to stretch the field, two things which caught Bill Belichick's eye.
Harry's injury has been a cause of frustration for the Patriots since they selected him, however. His potential can't be doubted, but a nagging ankle ailment has kept him out until this point, and it's unlikely he'll play a major role in New England's Week 9 game against the Ravens due to a lack of familiarity with live action and the Patriots' playbook.
If N’Keal Harry is activated, might a deeper receiver group allow the Patriots to shift toward more spread looks?
— Phil Perry (@PhilAPerry) November 1, 2019
Looking at efficiency, 10 personnel, and the complicated calculus involved in determining “what’s best for the football team...” ⬇️https://t.co/MJT9TUsbH1 pic.twitter.com/Laddwre2Dz
Even the threat of Harry makes the Patriots' offense that much more dangerous, as it'll likely aid Brady in finding the likes of Julian Edelman and Phillip Dorsett.