Takeaways from the Bears trading for WR N’Keal Harry

The Chicago Bears added to their receiving corp in trading for  wide receiver N’Keal Harry. The Bears are sending a 2024 seventh-round selection to the New England Patriots for Harry.

First-time Bears general manager Ryan Poles has been criticized for his handling of Justin Fields, in terms of his supporting cast. That includes an inexperienced receivers room, where Darnell Mooney is the only player with proven success.

Harry has been a huge disappointment during his first three seasons, which prompted the move. But a fresh start in Chicago could be exactly what he needs.

Here are our takeaways from the Harry trade:

1
The trade was a win for the Bears

AP Photo/Zach Bolinger

The Bears trading for Harry is the definition of a low-risk, high-reward move, and it’s a win for Poles. No matter how you look at it — Harry panning out or ultimately burning out — it’s a move that made every bit of sense for a Chicago team lacking in the wide receiver department. Harry, while a disappointment, is still just 24 years old and a change of scenery could be good for him. The Harry trade is the kind of short-term, prove-it move that Poles has been making throughout the offseason. Even if Harry doesn’t pan out, the Bears giving up a seventh-round pick for a former first-round selection is better than the Patriots getting back a seventh rounder for their former first-round pick.

2
That said, it doesn’t change the state of Chicago’s receiving corps

AP Photo/Aaron Doster

Even with the addition of Harry, the Bears receivers room is one of the weakest in the NFL. That’s not exactly a recipe for success for a young quarterback in Fields heading into a pivotal second season. Mooney remains the lone proven commodity at the position, even with Harry bringing three years of experience. Harry hasn’t found success at the NFL level, which led to him being traded. Right now, Chicago’s top four wideouts are Mooney, Byron Pringle, Velus Jones Jr. and Equanimeous St. Brown. There are two roster spots up for grabs, but there’s not a lot in terms of depth behind them. It’s good news for Harry, who will battle the likes of Dante Pettis and Tajae Sharpe, among others.

3
Harry gets a much-needed, fresh start with Bears

The Providence Journal / Kris Craig

Harry has been a huge disappointment during his…