Deonte Harty

Deonte Harty's Biography

Deonte Harty, born Deonte Harris on December 4, 1997, is a recognized American professional football wide receiver and return specialist. He shines brightly in the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, demonstrating his excellence in the field and leaving an indelible mark in the football industry.

Before reaching the heights of his accomplishments, Deonte’s journey started from humble beginnings. He was raised in the Baltimore suburb of Middle River, Maryland. His athletic talent emerged in high school when he excelled not only in football but also basketball and track and field at Archbishop Curley High School.

His senior year at Archbishop Curley High School bore witness to Deonte’s devotion to his craft. He was named the 2014 Varsity Sports Network Offensive Player of the Year for football. Moreover, his talent led him to earn All-Conference and All-State honors. His outstanding performance was reflected further as he was chosen for The Baltimore Sun’s First-team All-Metro for the 2014 football season. That very season, by scoring two touchdowns and amassing 206 total yards in a game, he led the Friars to the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) B Conference Championship, making it the school’s first undefeated football season in its history.

While Deonte’s senior year presented a remarkable achievement, his junior and sophomore years were equally noteworthy. In 2013, he rushed for 933 yards on 86 carries for the Friars and scored 18 touchdowns. Moreover, his sophomore year saw him go for 676 yards on 63 carries, scoring six touchdowns.

Post high school, Deonte ventured into college football, playing for Assumption College, a Division II school. His performance was unforgettable as he left with a school record under his name.

In 2019, Deonte’s career took a leap forward as he signed with the New Orleans Saints as a rookie undrafted free agent. His performance during the training camp, including a 78-yard touchdown return against the New York Jets, led to his inclusion in the Saints’ 53-man roster. He marked his NFL debut against the Houston Texans as the Saints’ primary kick returner.

Deonte’s rookie year in the NFL witnessed him leading in punt returns, combined returns, and punt return yards. This performance earned him a well-deserved spot in the Pro Bowl, making him the first undrafted Saint to make the Pro Bowl roster as a rookie. To add to these accomplishments, he was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.

However, as in any journey, there were challenges on the path. Deonte was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list in August 2020 but was back in action just two days later. That year, he scored his first professional receiving touchdown against the Carolina Panthers. Unfortunately, later in December, he was placed again on injured reserve due to injury but was activated in January 2021.

In 2021, Deonte’s career was clouded by a legal issue over a DUI charge, and he was suspended for three games. By March 2022, Deonte was playing again and the Saints placed a second-round restricted free agent tender on him. Later in the year, in October, he was placed on the injured reserve list again.

Deonte then signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2023 on a two-year contract. He continued to show his prowess on the field, becoming the team’s main kick returner and catching his first touchdown with the Bills. His performance against the Miami Dolphins marked a memorable game where he returned a punt 96 yards for a touchdown, triggering the Bills’ 4th-quarter comeback, winning the AFC East division title. His performance led to him being named the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week.

However, in 2024, Deonte was released by the Bills and signed by the Baltimore Ravens just after a month. Though his professional journey in football has been marked by both highs and lows, his progress and talent remain promising.

As significant as his professional journey, Deonte has undergone important personal changes as well. He legally changed his name from Deonte Harris to Deonte Harty in 2021 to honor his stepfather, reflecting the significance of his family in his journey.
This detailed account of the professional footballer, Deonte Harty, draws a picture of how a boy from Middle River, Maryland, became a recognized name within the professional football world through his exceptional dedication and talents in the field.