NFL News NFL News, Reports and Updates
Patriots training camp breakout candidates: WR Ja’Lynn Polk originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
Every day this week we’ll take a look at a player who could emerge from relative obscurity during Patriots training camp. With practices set to begin next week, particularly with a new coaching staff in place, this portion of the NFL calendar represents opportunity for everyone on Jerod Mayo’s roster. But there are always a few who make a “leap” this time of year — some expected, some not.
We’ll continue this five-day series with rookie receiver Ja’Lynn Polk.
The measurables
At 6-foot-1, 203 pounds, Polk has enough size to be deployed in a variety of scenarios but his frame isn’t necessarily overpowering. His 4.52-second 40 time at this year’s combine was also relatively pedestrian. But his body control in contested situations and his willingness to work over the middle of the field helped him rack up 69 catches for 1,159 yards in his final season at Washington. He also flashed a nose for the goal line with nine touchdowns for the Huskies last year.
They said it
“He’s one of those guys that isn’t afraid to do the dirty work,” Jerod Mayo said of Polk after the wideout was drafted by New England early in the second round.
“When you talk about the dirty work, obviously we have a good set of backs. But sometimes you need those receivers who come in there and dig out support, and he does that at a very high level.”
Why the potential breakout?
While Polk’s ability to do the little things — block in the run game, understand multiple roles within the receiver room, etc. — matters to Mayo and the Patriots, it’s worth reiterating that his talent level to play the position could soon make him a go-to option in Foxboro. Perhaps he establishes himself in that regard before the end of camp.
During mandatory minicamp practices, Polk performed like the most impactful pass-catcher on the field. On Day 1, he caught a touchdown pass from Jacoby Brissett in 11-on-11 work and grabbed…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/patriots-training-camp-breakout-candidates-203943566.html
Author : NBC Sports Boston
Publish date : 2024-07-18 20:39:43
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
