Former New England Patriots’ first-round pick N’Keal Harry is set to embark on a new chapter in his NFL career. The 25-year-old wide receiver, who has yet to fully realize his potential since being drafted in 2019, has been signed by the Minnesota Vikings, a move that offers him another chance to shine on the field.
Harry’s signing bolsters the Vikings’ wide receiver roster, which features a mix of intriguing talents. The group is led by the NFL’s standout wideout, Justin Jefferson, who headlines an array of players including Jalen Reagor, previously a disappointment with the Philadelphia Eagles, and Jordan Addison, a first-round pick from USC in the 2023 draft. K.J. Osborn, who had a promising sophomore season in 2022, also adds depth to the team’s receiving corps.
Originally chosen as the No. 32 overall pick by the Patriots in the 2019 draft, N’Keal Harry remains the sole wide receiver selected in the first round during Bill Belichick’s extensive 23-year tenure as head coach. However, Harry’s time with the Patriots was marked by three underwhelming seasons, leading to his eventual trade to the Chicago Bears. In his stint with Chicago, Harry participated in just seven games, amassing seven receptions for 116 yards and a single touchdown.
Injuries have significantly hindered Harry’s progress and prevented him from showcasing his full potential. Over four professional seasons, he has been sidelined for a total of 26 games.
Joining the Minnesota Vikings presents an opportunity for Harry to make a fresh start. The team boasted a commendable 13-4 record in the previous season, clinching the NFC North division title and ranking among the top 10 in various passing offense statistics. Quarterback Kirk Cousins, while not renowned for leading Super Bowl victories, consistently delivers solid performances and involves a diverse array of receiving targets each game.
Given Minnesota’s offensive setup and the chance to work with Cousins, N’Keal Harry finds himself in an encouraging environment. As he embarks on this new phase of his career, the extent to which he capitalizes on this opportunity remains to be seen, potentially marking a pivotal juncture in his journey as a professional athlete.
