N’Keal Harry isn’t giving up on the Patriots. And it seems New England isn’t giving up on him. Even after the receiver and 2019 first-round pick demanded a trade this offseason — and, of course, didn’t get one (so far) — he has managed to put together an impressive training camp, including in the seventh practice on Wednesday.
Whether the pads are on or off, Harry is showing up with big plays in a way that is far more consistent than in previous seasons. The knock on Harry has long been that his contributions show up too few and far between. He’s inconsistent, which is why he’s only managed 45 catches for 414 yards and four touchdowns in his first two seasons.
This training camp has been a step in the right direction, with Wednesday being one of many good days for the receiver. He made the catch of the day, laying out to make an athletic grab over the middle on a slant route. Cam Newton was off target — and maybe in danger of throwing an interception to cornerback J.C. Jackson. Harry bailed out his quarterback. But it wasn’t just that impressive flash of athleticism — Harry also posted a drive with Mac Jones where he had two of the three receptions, burning cornerback Joejuan Williams with ease.
There’s no saying what’s in store for Harry’s future. But for the first time in a long time, there’s a growing sense of optimism (at least from this reporter’s perspective). Here’s more from Day 7 of training camp.