He was signed by the St. Louis Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2012 and played college football at UCLA.

He started seven games during his freshman season and was used primarily as a blocker, although he did have five catches for 40 yards and a touchdown.

He once again was used almost exclusively as a blocker during his sophomore year, starting four games out of double tight-end formations, totaling eight receptions for 41 yards and a touchdown.

At the conclusion of 2012 training camp, Harkey was released and placed on the Rams practice squad.

He says that former Kansas City Chiefs and Atlanta Falcons tight end Tony Gonzalez is his biggest inspiration as a player.