Criticized Patriots WR Headed For ‘Specialized’ Role

The New England Patriots missed the playoffs in 2020. NFL experts have criticized several Patriots players, and one WR may be going for a different role.

Let’s just say some analysts are worried about N’Keal Harry and his underperformance. The New England Patriots brought him for a really good reason, but he failed to meet expectations. Let’s not forget that the Patriots got him in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Head coach Bill Belichick thought he’d be a demand-a-double team outside threat the offense needed.

None of this happened Harry played in just 21 of 32 regular-season games. He sustained too many injuries and missed a lot of time. In his 21 games, Harry had just 45 receptions for 414 yards and four touchdowns.

If Harry pulled out these numbers in one season, everyone might be wondering if the wide receiver had what Bill Belichick needs. Unfortunately, he hit these numbers over two seasons and we have a few good reasons to be worried.

Criticized Patriots WR may be going for a different role

Mike D’Abate from Sports Illustrated believes that Harry may be going for a specialized role.

“There are times when Harry has made some brilliant catches, flashing some of the skill that made him a first-round target for the Patriots in 2019. More often than not, however, he has been a minimal factor in the Pats offense. Should he wish to improve his standing in the positional depth chart, Harry will need to stay healthy and find a rhythm that will allow him to utilize his strengths in the Patriots offense. Despite having the talent to be a top receiver, Harry is likely to be used in more of a specialized role in 2021.”

Maybe Belichick will use Harry as a red zone target. He will be able to use his size and strength in order to muscle defensive backs.

Jakobi Meyers was amazing in 2020. He set up a nice base and he will probably move on at the same pace. The Patriots also signed Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne.

Gunner Olszewski is also here. Isaiah Zuber was amazing in OTAs, and the Patriots also brought Marvin Hall. Let’s not forget that Tre Nixon is also here.