The New England Patriots are placing rookie receiver N’Keal Harry on injured reserve, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Harry is expected to return in 2019, but won’t be eligible play on game day until Week 9, per league rules for IR. He can practice after six weeks on IR.
While veteran receiver Demaryius Thomas didn’t make the initial 53-man roster after cuts on Saturday, he is rejoining the team following Harry’s move to IR, per ESPN.
Harry has been dealing with an ankle injury this summer, which seemed apparent during the team’s first preseason game against the Detroit Lions when he left the game limping after a catch. In the Patriots locker room on Aug. 27, he was wearing tape on his right ankle.
The Patriots drafted Harry in the first round at 32nd overall, the highest Bill Belichick has ever selected a receiver in his time as head coach with New England. The Patriots’ receiver group includes Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, Thomas, Jakobi Meyers, Phillip Dorsett and Gunner Olszewski.
