Who Should I Start? Ja'Lynn Polk or Javon Baker

Thursday, July 24, 6:16 PM

New England Patriots wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk (undisclosed) missed another training camp practice on Thursday with what is considered minor muscle tightness, per Mike Reiss of ESPN. The Patriots are playing it safe with Polk early in camp, but any practice he misses could be crucial for last year's second-round pick who is battling for a roster spot this summer. The 23-year-old was previously dealing with a shoulder injury earlier this offseason, but he passed his physical, which is why he was left off the Physically Unable to Perform list to begin camp. Polk has plenty of ground to make up after he caught only 12 passes in 15 games for New England as a rookie in 2024. He will have opportunities with this new coaching staff, but it won't be easy to find playing time in what is now a somewhat crowded receiver room.

Wednesday, December 11, 9:45 PM

New England Patriots wide receiver Javon Baker (concussion) was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday's practice as he battles through the league's concussion protocol. It's unclear when the 22-year-old picked up his injury. Baker played just two snaps in New England's loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 13, so it's possible it happened then. Though, it's a bit concerning that he's still in the league's protocol even after a bye in Week 14. He'll have two more chances to elevate his practice status ahead of the Patriots' Week 15 outing against the Arizona Cardinals. The rookie wideout has yet to haul in a pass this season but has worked as a return man for the Pats. If Baker can't play, running backs Antonio Gibson and JaMycal Hasty will handle most of the return duties.