Who Should I Start? Ja'Lynn Polk or Jacob Cowing

Thursday, May 29, 1:52 PM

New England Patriots former second-round wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk (shoulder) isn't participating fully in voluntary organized team activities after having offseason shoulder surgery, according to Patriots.com's Evan Lazar. Polk has been running routes versus air during team periods with offensive assistant Riley Larkin and appears to be going full speed. The 23-year-old pass-catcher made a limited impact in 2024 in his rookie season, catching 12 of 33 targets for 87 yards and two touchdowns in 15 games (seven starts). When he gets up to speed, Polk will be vying for playing time in a more crowded receiving corps that includes Stefon Diggs (knee), DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Kendrick Bourne, Javon Baker, Mack Hollins and rookie third-rounder Kyle Williams. For now, Polk probably won't be a fantasy option in 12-team mixed leagues.

Friday, June 13, 12:14 PM

The Athletic's Matt Barrows writes that one of the themes among coaches and players this spring was that nobody took better advantage of the offseason than San Francisco 49ers second-year wide receiver Jacob Cowing. The 24-year-old was selected 135th overall (fourth round) last year but had a minimal role, catching just four passes for 80 yards in 15 games (zero starts). However, he trained with quarterback Brock Purdy and receiver Ricky Pearsall (hamstring) early in the offseason and had a prominent role during spring practices. It helped that Pearsall, Brandon Aiyuk (knee) and Jauan Jennings (calf) were sidelined, but it's notable nonetheless. Cowing has great speed and is doing a better job of maintaining it throughout his cuts and breaks. He's good with the ball in his hands and could be a nice little gadget player in 2025, although it's unlikely to amount to much fantasy value.