The New England Patriots have a sizable group of players who are entering their second year in 2020.
N’Keal Harry, Jarrett Stidham, Damien Harris, Chase Winovich and Gunner Olszewski are some names that stick out. These guys have all shown extreme growth and improvement since last season and Bill Belichick acknowledged that while speaking with reporters on Friday — but, he made a special note for Harry, the former first-round pick.
“This summer, I think our players in their second year have all made a significant jump and growth in their knowledge, both of our system and what they see on the other side from other teams in the league and our opponents and general maturity in professional football,” Belichick said.
They all fall into that category and that’s certainly the case for N’Keal as well. He’s more comfortable, and has a much better understanding this year than what he did last year. He’s been very productive for us on the field. He still has a lot of football ahead of him, a lot of growth. He’s a physical, tough kid that likes to compete. You can see his competitiveness out there on the field, and that allows him to get better with his work ethic and toughness and competitiveness. Those are all good qualities for a player to improve.”
Harry played in seven games last season due to injury, collecting 12 receptions for 105 yards and two touchdowns. He’s 6-foot-4, 225 pounds and has an innate ability to high point the football. The Patriots’ depth at receiver includes Julian Edelman, Mohamed Sanu and shorter players that don’t have the redzone ability that Harry has.
His growth and ability on the field will be instrumental for New England’s offense this season.
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