Koerner: My Way-Too-Early N’Keal Harry Projections for 2019

Koerner: My Way-Too-Early N’Keal Harry Projections for 2019 article feature image
Credit:

Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports. Pictured: 2019 NFL Draft stage in Nashville

  • See Sean Koerner's initial 2019 projections for New England Patriots rookie wide receiver N'Keal Harry.

With the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft less than a day old, I've compiled my initial 2019 projections for N'Keal Harry.

One important thing to keep in mind: These projections aren't a reflection of how I think he should be used in New England — I'm simply trying to project how he will be used.

N'Keal Harry 2019 Projections

The Patriots were a fantastic landing spot for Harry and it’s worth noting they typically do not target wide receiver this early in the draft.

It’s a clear sign that the Patriots are aware they need to give Tom Brady some weapons; their wide receiver depth chart is pretty thin behind Julian Edelman. It's no guarantee that Josh Gordon will return to the team, or that Demaryius Thomas will be able to return anywhere near 100% after he tore his Achilles fairly late in 2018 — it's not an injury one can come back from quickly, let alone when they are 31 years old.

Add into the fact that Rob Gronkowski retired, and you get a scenario in which Harry could play a pivotal role in the red zone.

He doesn't create much separation, but can make contested catches. If there were any system that would be able to utilize his skill sets, it would be Bill Belichick/Brady. It's not often you see a rookie receiver thrust into a high octane offense with a need at the position, so this was arguably the best landing spot for Harry.

My initial projections for his rookie season are:

  • 47 receptions
  • 620 yards
  • 4.2 rec TD

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