N’Keal Harry leaves Patriots preseason game early with apparent shoulder injury
N’Keal Harry‘s roller coaster of an offseason took another turn Thursday night. The Patriots’ 2019 first-round pick left the team’s Week 2 preseason game in Philadelphia early with an injury.
Late in the second quarter, Harry ran a go-route down the left sideline. Mac Jones lofted him a throw 25-yards down field, which bounced off his hands. Harry then fell hard on his side, and walked off the field grabbing at his shoulder.
Absolute dime from Mac Jones and a good route on the go ball from N’Keal Harry. Hope he’s alright but this has got to be caught. Two weeks in a row now Mac has dropped one in the bucket up the left sideline. pic.twitter.com/Xy29MBnx2h
— Ryan Spagnoli (@Ryan_Spags) August 20, 2021
Following the play, Harry heading back to the locker room and didn’t return to the game. As of 11:00 p.m. Thursday night, there’s still no update on Harry’s status, although he was seen leaving the locker room in a sling.
Patriots WR N’Keal Harry in a sling pic.twitter.com/rBmhEls10i
— Josh Tolentino (@JCTSports) August 20, 2021
The injury has a chance to delay or derail what’s been an incredibly productive summer for Harry. After a trade request from his agent right before camp, Harry seemingly dominated practice after practice to start the summer. However, he had just one catch for four yards in last week’s game, and was looking to put the cap on a complete preseason.
This isn’t the first time Harry has been injured in a preseason game. During his rookie year he injured his ankle in the preseason opener against Detroit, and started the season on IR.
If Harry’s injury will cause him to miss significant time, the Patriots have a tough decision to make. Would they IR Harry outright, making him ineligible this season? Or keep him on the initial 53-man roster before making the move, allowing him to be eligible to return from IR?
MORE: How did Cam and Mac look in Week 2?
Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].
