Patriots wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk can’t be pleased by his 2024 rookie season, but he’s adamant that his approach in training camp is the same as it was last year.
“I don’t think nothing’s really different, you know? I just got my feet in the water that first year. So now, I’ve got the opportunity to get going,” he said after Wednesday’s practice.
Polk carried lofty expectations as a second-round draft pick. However, through 15 games, he logged just 12 catches, 87 yards, and two touchdowns.
He also missed the first week of training camp with muscle tightness. He didn’t sound too bent out of shape over that, though.
“It wasn’t frustrating at all,” he said. “I was just going through a process, getting ready for my opportunities when I get out there.”
He returned with a big play earlier this week when he caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Drake Maye. Head coach Mike Vrabel praised how seamlessly he was able to jump back into offense after an offseason plagued by health setbacks.
“I didn't see the mental errors, which sometimes occur when you are getting the installation but not able to go and rep it,” Vrabel said, and noted that Polk worked “extremely hard” to get back to participation.
When pressed as to why he’s approaching this training camp in that same way he did last year, Polk said, “I don’t go off the narrative of what people think of me. I know who I am, and I know the work that I put in each and every day to go out there and help this team win. I’m going to keep working hard each and every day.”
“I don’t even think about last year. You know, we’ve got a new staff, new team. Energy’s great around here. I’m good now,” he added.
Polk’s past high draft status might still be one of his stronger cases for making the team as the depth chart slowly sorts itself out among receivers. Stefon Diggs is the clear top wideout, followed by some mix of DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, and rookie Kyle Williams. After that, with Mack Hollins on the PUP list, it’s really day-to-day in terms of performance. Fellow second-year receiver Javon Baker, Kendrick Bourne, and Efton Chism are all fighting for a spot on the 53-man roster.
“I’m in a fight with myself,” Polk said. “Beating myself each and every day, trying to be better than I was yesterday. As long as I’ve got that mindset, I’m going to be great.”