Drafting wide receivers hasn't been the New England Patriots' strong suit. With the exception of 2023 sixth-rounder DeMario Douglas, they haven't landed a dependable wideout via the draft over the last decade.
The post-Bill Belichick Patriots hoped to reverse their fortune in the 2024 draft, when they used a second-round selection on Ja'Lynn Polk and a fourth-rounder on Javon Baker. Despite both rookies showing flashes of upside in training camp, they've been major disappointments throughout their debut seasons.
Polk only has 12 catches on 32 targets for 87 yards and two touchdowns through 13 games played. The former Washington standout has quickly fallen out of favor in the Pats offense with only six targets over his last six games.