Former New England Patriots first-round pick N’Keal Harry is getting the change of scenery that is so much needed.
According to NFL Media’s Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport, the wide receiver has been dealt to the Chicago Bears for a seventh-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Harry, 24, had fallen deep into Bill Belichick’s dog house after New England made the former Arizona State standout the No. 32 pick back in 2019. In fact, there didn’t seem to be a path for him to make the final roster following training camp later this summer.
It was a year ago next month that Harry actually requested a trade from the Patriots due to a lack of playing time.
“Following numerous conversations with the Patriots, I believe it’s time for a fresh start and best for both parties if N’Keal moves on before the start of training camp. That’s why I have informed the Patriots today I am formally requesting a trade on behalf of my client.”
N’Keal Harry’s agent, Jamal Tooson (August, 2021)
N’Keal Harry gets fresh start with the Chicago Bears
New England’s depth chart at wide receiver was not indicative of Harry making much of an impact this coming season. The likes of DeVante Parker, Kendrick Bourne, Jakobi Meyers, Nelson Agholor and Tyquan Thornton were all seemingly ahead of him prior to this trade.
This won’t be the case for a receiver-needy Bears team headed by young quarterback Justin Fields. Harry could make an immediate impact in Chicago with its wide receiver room void of proven talent behind Darnell Mooney.
- N’Keal Harry stats (2019-21): 57 receptions, 598 yards, 4 TD, 55% catch rate
Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Harry will have to show his stuff with Bears training camp set to open in two weeks. If that doesn’t happen, we could be witnessing the end of his fledgling NFL career.