When the Patriots drafted Washington standout Ja’Lynn Polk back in April, it seemed like they had finally found that high-value receiver they desperately needed.
It felt like a fresh move for the Patriots, especially with Polk teaming up with rookie quarterback Drake Maye. But after six games (five starts), Polk’s impact has been pretty quiet, with just 10 catches (on 23 targets) for 78 yards and a single touchdown.
Patriots coach Jerod Mayo didn’t hold back when talking about Polk’s role in the team’s offense, hinting that the rookie hasn’t been consistent enough to earn more playing time.
“I think he just needs to get over this mental hump. You’ve got to cut down on the dropped passes,” Mayo said via MassLive.com. “He was great at blocking in college, and we’ve seen that in flashes this season too, but he needs to keep improving. It’s all about paying attention to the details, working harder, and growing into a receiver we can count on in both the run and pass game.”
Polk’s playing time has been all over the place. He played every offensive snap in Week 5, but in Week 6, he was only on the field for 65 percent of the snaps. During Maye’s NFL debut, where the rookie QB threw touchdown passes to Kayshon Boutte, Hunter Henry, and Demario Douglas, Polk was targeted four times but only caught one pass for four yards.
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Mayo’s comments made it clear that Polk still has work to do to become a key part of the Patriots’ offense. But Polk isn’t letting the criticism shake him, telling reporters, “I’m not dealing with (any) mental problems at all.”
In fact, Polk is feeling confident. “I believe I have the best hands in the league,” he said. “So, I don’t think my drops are an issue.”
When asked about his recent struggles, including a drop in each of the last two games (according to PFF), Polk admitted that he might feel a bit limited by how the Patriots are using him.
“I feel like I’m limited in what I can really do right now,” Polk said. “I’m just trying to keep a positive mindset and keep improving.”
Given the challenges the Patriots’ offense has faced this season, especially with Jacoby Brissett constantly under pressure in the pocket, it’s understandable why Polk hasn’t broken out yet. But Mayo’s comments suggest it’s more than just the team’s offensive struggles.
When pressed further, Polk remained a bit vague, saying, “I’ll just say I’m limited on certain things right now.”
It may sound a little mysterious, but it’s still early in Polk’s career. He has plenty of time to find his groove, build chemistry with Maye, and show what he’s capable of.
Polk is confident it’s only a matter of time before things turn around.
“I’ve got more confidence in myself than anyone else does,” Polk said. “I just have the mindset of wanting to be the best. So, I’m going to keep chasing greatness and be the best I can be.”
