The New England Patriots have signed 2019 first-round draft choice N’Keal Harry, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. New England picked Harry at 32nd overall in the draft in April.
He joins the Patriots after three seasons with the Arizona State Sun Devils. In 2018, Harry had 73 receptions for 1,088 yards and nine touchdowns. In 2017, he had 82 receptions for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns. The 6-foot-2, 215-pound receiver will compete for a starting role with veteran receivers Julian Edelman, Demaryius Thomas and Phillip Dorsett, among others.
Harry reported to rookie minicamp, and met with media on May 9. He was asked what has stood out about the Patriots organization so far.
“The way they did things,” he said. “Like I said earlier, it’s a great organization. They’ve obviously won a lot of Super Bowls and there’s a reason for that. So when I came here for the visit, I just felt like there was something different. There was a different approach and a different mentality.”
He could be a major part of their approach on offense, especially with Rob Gronkowski retiring. The team may look to Harry’s physical presence during the 2019 season, particular in the red zone. But first, he’ll have to get accustomed to the playbook, which he’s been studying. He’ll also probably have to endure some tough love from Tom Brady.
“That’s something I’m looking forward to,” he said. “I’m the type of player that wants to get better, I want to get coached hard, so I’m looking forward to that.”
He should be just fine in New England.
