N'Keal Harry returned to practice earlier this week after being sidelined with a shoulder injury suffered in New England's second preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots activate WR N'Keal Harry off IR ahead of Sunday's game

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 10/2/21

The New England Patriots have activated wide receiver N'Keal Harry off injured reserve, making him eligible to play in Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to ESPN's Field Yates.

The Patriots have activated WR N’Keal Harry off of injured reserve, making him eligible to play tomorrow night against the Bucs, per source.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) October 2, 2021

Harry returned to practice earlier this week after being sidelined with a shoulder injury suffered in New England's second preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The 23-year-old suffered the injury while diving for a pass from Mac Jones. He left the game immediately and eventually was placed on injured reserve after making the initial 53-man roster.

It's unclear how much of an impact Harry will have in Sunday's game against the Bucs. The former first-round pick hasn't come close to living up to expectations, managing just 45 catches for 414 yards and four touchdowns in 21 career games.

However, with the Patriots struggling in the red zone this year, having a big-bodied target who can box out defensive backs near the goal line in Harry should be an asset to New England this weekend.

Jakobi Meyers is New England's leading receiver this season with 19 catches for 176 yards in three games. Kendrick Bourne, Nelson Agholor and Hunter Henry also have more than 100 yards receiving this year.

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