Deonte Harty Bio
Deonte Harty (né Harris; December 4, 1997) is an American professional football wide receiver and return specialist. He played college football for the Assumption Greyhounds and signed with the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2019. Harty grew up in the Baltimore suburb of Middle River, Maryland and played high school football at Archbishop Curley High School where he also lettered in basketball and track & field.
Early Life and Background
Deonte Harty was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He attended Archbishop Curley High School, where he excelled in football, basketball, and track & field. As a senior, he was named the 2014 Varsity Sports Network Offensive Player of the Year for football and earned All-Conference and All-State honors. Harty led his team to the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association B Conference Championship and an undefeated season, showcasing his talent with impressive statistics, including 2,030 total yards and 25 touchdowns in just ten games. Harty’s high school achievements laid a strong foundation for his athletic career. He continued his education and football journey at Assumption University, where he played from 2015 to 2018. His college career further honed his skills and prepared him for the professional level.
Path to American Football
After completing his college career, Deonte Harty entered the NFL Draft in 2019 but went undrafted. He signed with the New Orleans Saints as a rookie undrafted free agent. Harty made a significant impact during training camp, notably with a 78-yard touchdown return against the New York Jets in the preseason. His performance earned him a spot on the Saints’ 53-man roster. Harty made his NFL debut on Monday Night Football as the primary kick returner in the season opener against the Houston Texans. He quickly made a name for himself by scoring his first NFL touchdown on a 53-yard punt return during a game against the Seattle Seahawks. His rookie season was remarkable, as he finished as the leader in punt returns and was selected to the Pro Bowl, becoming the first undrafted player in franchise history to achieve this feat.
Deonte Harty Career
Early Career (2019)
Deonte Harty’s professional career began with the New Orleans Saints in 2019. His impressive rookie season included being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and leading the NFL in punt return yards. He showcased his skills as a dynamic return specialist and was recognized as a first-team All-Pro. Harty’s ability to impact games with his speed and agility made him a valuable asset to the Saints.
Breakthrough (2020-2022)
Harty’s second season was marked by challenges, including a stint on the reserve/COVID-19 list and injuries that affected his playing time. Despite these setbacks, he managed to score his first professional receiving touchdown in a game against the Carolina Panthers. However, he faced legal issues in 2021 that led to a suspension. In March 2022, the Saints placed a second-round restricted free agent tender on Harty, indicating their continued interest in his talents. However, injuries limited his contributions during the season.
Notable Works and Milestones
Harty’s signature work includes his remarkable rookie season with the New Orleans Saints, where he was recognized as a Pro Bowl player and led the league in punt return yards. His achievements in 2019 set a high standard for his career.
Deonte Harty Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Deonte Harty has received several nominations, including recognition as a first-team All-Pro and a selection to the Pro Bowl in 2019.
Deonte Harty Awards Won
Deonte Harty’s accolades include being named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and leading the NFL in punt return yards in 2019. His achievements highlight his impact as a player in the league.
Deonte Harty Family
Information regarding Deonte Harty’s family is limited. He legally changed his name to honor his stepfather, reflecting the importance of family in his life.
Personal Life
Deonte Harty has faced legal issues, including a DUI arrest in 2021, which led to a suspension from the league. Despite these challenges, he has continued to pursue his career in professional football. Harty currently plays for the Baltimore Ravens, having signed with the team in April 2024.