ASU Football: Analyzing N’Keal Harry’s fit with NFL teams
By Trevor Booth
New England Patriots
In 2015, the prospect of Jaelen Strong catching balls from Tom Brady was thrilling to picture. Now, Harry could be the Sun Devil in that position.
Holding the No. 32 pick in the draft, the Patriots have some needs on the offensive end. Rob Gronkowski retired, and the future of Josh Gordon is uncertain.
After losing Chris Hogan to the Carolina Panthers, New England addressed a need with the signing of Demaryius Thomas. A former All-Pro member, Thomas could be the next of sneaky, well-thought acquisitions from Bill Belichick and Co.
However, the name may no longer match the production. Last season, Thomas suffered an Achilles tear, which could impact his ability to cut and run routes the same way.
Enter Harry. He met with the Patriots on April 1, one of nine teams he reportedly had visits with.
This is an organization that will likely value Harry’s aggression and tenacity to make plays. While his separation is a concern, it wouldn’t be smart to doubt what Belichick could create for him in an offensive scheme.
Also, he’d be working with Brady, who is arguably the greatest quarterback to play the game. If he can create plays for Julian Edelman, Deion Branch and others, there shouldn’t be any doubts that he could make Harry a big-time threat.
In six days, we’ll know whether or not Harry was deemed worthy of a first round selection. As time approaches, keep an eye on these teams as ones that might make a move at him.