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5 takeaways from Day 7 of 2025 Patriots training camp
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Will the Patriots use Marcus Jones on offense this year? Here s what Mike Vrabel said.
Ja Lynn Polk would like to put his rookie season behind him.
His season-high three catches on seven targets during New England’s crushing 30–13 loss to the 49ers marked the apex of his contribution.
He caught what looked to be the game-winning touchdown against the Miami Dolphins the next week. However, referees removed the score from the board after evaluating the play and concluding that Polk did not get both feet in-bounds.
Polk’s chances fell apart after that. The next week, Drake Maye took over at quarterback. In three of his five starts, Jacoby Brissett had at least three hits on Polk. After hitting Polk four times in his first start and three times in his second, Maye’s touches drastically decreased.
Polk played in four games in December, but he did not record a single catch. He had 12 receptions, 87 yards, and two touchdowns at the end of the season. During the first five weeks, he gained 74 of those 87 yards on Brissett’s throws.
“Last year, I don’t even think about it,” Polk smiled. I’m here now because we have a new squad and the atmosphere is fantastic. I’m moving forward while continuing to believe in Jesus. He has been on my side the entire time. I will continue to work and maintain my beliefs.
Polk’s apparent muscle soreness has prevented him from participating in the majority of the Patriots’ training camp activities thus far. On his first practice back, he caught a touchdown from Maye. On Tuesday, he made a one-handed catch that elicited a loud cheer from the fans, even though it went out of bounds.
Polk put a lot of effort into returning to practice, according to coach Mike Vrabel. Polk stated that he is continuing his strategy from the previous season and is feeling upbeat about the new beginning with a new coaching staff.
Polk stated, “I don’t stray from the narrative or what people think of me.” I am aware of my identity and the daily effort I make to ensure this team’s success. I will continue to put in a lot of effort every single day. I will continue to work on my preparedness and use it in the field.
Polk stated that he is looking forward to a fresh start with his new colleagues and is excited about the upcoming season.
Polk seems to be struggling to maintain his position in the crowded Patriots receiver group.
The Patriots’ top receiver thus far appears to be four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs. They will heavily rely on DeMario Douglas, who was New England’s most productive receiver the previous season. Kayshon Boutte’s camp has been solid.
Kyle Williams, a rookie, has displayed flashes. Mack Hollins is anticipated to be included even though he hasn’t practiced much.
Having caught 55 receptions for 800 yards and five scores in Josh McDaniels’ final season with the Patriots in 2021, Kendrick Bourne is arguably the most knowledgeable of all the team’s receivers with McDaniels’ offense.
That means there are six receivers that have a good chance of making the club. Additionally, Polk, Javon Baker, and Efton Chism are not included.
Polk, who finished last year’s draft class as the team’s second-highest pick after Maye, stated that he does not see the scenario as a battle for his job.
Polk remarked, “I feel like I’m fighting with myself.” Every every day, I compete with myself to improve upon who I was. I will succeed as long as I maintain that attitude.
Boston.com’s Khari Thompson reports on professional sports. Khari worked as a college football reporter for The Clarion Ledger in Jackson, Mississippi, prior to joining the team in 2022.
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