Javon Baker, the New England Patriots’ fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft, has signed his rookie contract with the team. The team confirmed the news on their official website. Baker is expected to play a key role in the team’s revamped offense alongside rookie Ja’Lynn Polk and veterans Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, JuJu Smith-Schuster, K.J. Osborn, and Tyquan Thornton in the receiving corps.
Baker began his college career at the University of Alabama before transferring to UCF. There he played alongside top talent like DeVonta Smith, Jaylen Waddle, and John Metchie III. In his final season with UCF, Baker had an impressive performance with 52 receptions for 1,139 yards and seven touchdowns.
The Patriots struggled with their offense during the 2023 season and hope for a stronger offense this year with a deeper group of receivers. Baker and Polk are expected to contribute right away, especially as Bourne recovers from a torn ACL. Smith-Schuster and Thornton have also faced challenges on the field.
The Patriots are looking for playmakers to help improve their offense, particularly on the outside. Baker has shown potential as a receiver and could be a valuable asset for the team if he can reach his full potential at the NFL level.
