In the world of professional sports, athletes often become known by the names they wear on their jerseys. But what if a player decides to change his name? People start speculating about the reasons behind such a significant decision.
Well, Deonte is one of those rare cases of a decision that captured the attention of fans. Known for his electrifying performances on the football field, Deonte is one of the best players in the NFL. But why did Deonte change his name?
In this story, we delve into the intriguing story behind this name transformation.
On December 26, 2021, it was revealed on X (formerly known as Twitter) that Deonte Harris added his stepfather’s name to his name. It was reported that Deonte filed a petition to change his name from Deonte Harris to Deonte Harty. The name was added to honor his stepdad Marlon Harty, who has been supporting the family for the past 17 years. Deonte also commented that he is not only the father figure to him. Instead, he considers Marlon as his real dad.
Who Is Deonte Harris?
Deonte Harty, formerly known as Deonte Harris, is an American football player. He was born on December 4, 1997, in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. Deonte serves as a wide receiver and return specialist for the Buffalo Bills in the National Football League (NFL).
Harty was awarded the Varsity Sports Network Offensive Player of the Year for football in 2014. Furthermore, he was also selected for the Baltimore Sun’s First-team All-Metro for the 2014 football season.
Growing up in Middle River, Maryland, a suburb of Baltimore, Harty worked on honing his football skills. He practiced football in high school at Archbishop Curley High School. It is said that Harty was a multi-sport athlete, also lettering in basketball and track & field during his time there.
Harty’s professional football journey commenced during his college years when he played for Assumption University in Worcester, Massachusetts. Due to Harty’s impressive skills, he was selected as a team member of the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2019. This was his entry ticket to the National Football League (NFL).
During this period, Deonte Harty achieved significant recognition in his rookie year in the NFL. He earned accolades like First-team All-Pro, a Pro Bowl selection, and inclusion in the PFWA All-Rookie Team, all in 2019.
Since joining the NFL, Harty has made a name for himself. He is not only an amazing wide receiver but also shows his skills in returning kicks and punts. His journey from college football to the professional ranks showcases his dedication and talent in the sport.
Harty has awards lined up in his name as well as holding numerous school records. Harty signed a two-year contract with the Buffalo Bills in March 2023 and is currently playing for the team.
From Deonte Harris to Deonte Harty
All-Pro New Orleans Saints WR/KR Deonte Harris has legally changed his name to Deonte Harty to honor his step father, Marlon, who has been a part of Deonte’s life for the last 17 years.
Marlon is a police sergeant with the Baltimore PD.
📸 Chynaeyes76 IG pic.twitter.com/QGi6eyQHin
— Brett Greenberg (@BrettGreenberg_) December 25, 2021In December 2021, Deonte filed a petition to change his name legally. He revealed that he wanted to change his name from Harris to Harty to honor his stepfather, Marlon Harty. Deonte added, “We don’t consider him our stepfather, we consider him my real dad.” He further added, “I want his name to continue because he’s done so much for me and my family”.
Honestly, Deonte’s response showed how much he cares about his stepfather and family.
Deonte also reported that when he announced to change his name from Harris to Harty, it was an emotional moment for both his mom and stepdad. People on the internet shared similar stories of their big decisions. It seems that Deonte received a lot of support on the internet for his decision to change his name.
Nothing wrong with this. Nice homage. Good for Mr. Harty 👍
— PittAlum1 (@pittalum90) December 25, 2021I changed my name to my step dads almost 10 years ago. He is my father and I wanted to honor him.
— William Byrd (@byrdmanET) December 26, 2021That is super sweet! Wonderful gesture.
— Lance Ramsay (@LanceRamsay) December 25, 2021What are your thoughts on changing names? Would you ever consider changing your own name? Share your thoughts in the comments section!
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