FOXBORO — Second-round receiver Ja’Lynn Polk has caught Mayo’s attention in the opening week of training camp. Or, more accurately, he’s kept the first-year head coach’s attention.
Before Thursday’s practice, Mayo said he’s been high on the talented Washington product since the Patriots began scouting him.
“I’ll tell you this, I’ve been a huge fan of Polk since scouting all those other players,” Mayo said. “He’s just one of those guys that when he puts the pads on, he’s that much better. He does the dirty work. He also can run great routes, has great hands. He’s one of those just all-around players that you want to build your team around, and I would also say he does flash some leadership ability, which I definitely appreciate.”
The Patriots hope Polk and fourth-round pick Javon Baker can help revitalize a receiving corps that’s been starved for talent in recent years, and both have been heavily involved thus far, seeing reps with all four New England quarterbacks.
While Baker profiles as a downfield big-play threat, Polk has looked the part of a reliable possession receiver, displaying sure hands and solid route-running chops. He caught six of his seven targets in team drills over the last two practices, including Tuesday’s most impressive reception: a leaping, corner-of-the-end zone touchdown from Jacoby Brissett in 7-on-7s.
Polk was quieter Thursday but hauled in another 7-on-7 touchdown, this one from fellow rookie Joe Milton III. He’s also seen work as a punt and kick returner.
Polk has heard the criticism of New England’s star-less wideout. He knows some prominent national outlets have ranked it as the worst in the NFL. He’s keeping receipts.
“I keep notes on everything,” the 22-year-old said. “I see all the stuff that they put out there about us. Our main focus is on what we’ve got to do, and if you’re not with us right now, when it’s all said and done, don’t get on the train. …
“If you’re not with us right now, stay where you’re at. Because when things get rolling, things get turned around, don’t hop on the train.”
Polk has shared similar sentiments on social media, as has Baker.
“Motivation,” Polk said. “Motivation.”
Proponents of Bill Belichick’s “ignore the noise” mantra might bristle at comments like these from an unproven player, but it’s clear the Patriots’ young pass-catchers do not lack confidence.
At this early stage, Polk, Baker, Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas and K.J. Osborn look like safe bets to make the team, pending Bourne’s return from a torn ACL. Tyquan Thornton, Jalen Reagor, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Kayshon Boutte, JaQuae Johnson and David Wallis are competing for the final one or two roster spots.
“Our expectation is high within our group and what we’re trying to do,” Polk said. “We’re going to do what we’ve got to do each and every day to get better, and when it’s time and those lights go on, the show’s going to get to rocking.”
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