Ja’Lynn Polk shows off his connection with rookie QB Drake Maye

Washington Huskies alum Ja’Lynn Polk appears to have asserted himself as a starter for the New England Patriots.

Former Washington Huskies wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk appears to have asserted himself as a starter for the New England Patriots ahead of his first season after the team released veteran Juju Smith-Schuster. In New England’s final preseason game against the Washington Commanders, he displayed his strong connection with his fellow rookie, quarterback Drake Maye.

In the first quarter, the two connected on a 29-yard crossing route, showing off what could be the future of coach Jerod Mayo’s passing offense.

Polk finished with 2 catches for 33 yards and didn’t play much against his former teammate, Washington Commanders safety/linebacker Dominique Hampton, which may mean that the Patriots are going to ask him to start alongside veterans Demario Douglas and Kendrick Bourne.

Over New England’s three preseason games, he tallied 7 catches for 53 yards while receiving minimal playing time but displaying all the traits that led to him being taken with the No. 37 overall pick. Polk’s ability to seek out soft spots in zone coverage, strong hands, toughness, and great vision all stood out, especially to Mayo.

“He’s another guy that’s just very steady,” Mayo said. “You watch him in college, of course he can run routes and catch the ball and do all those things, but the thing that got me was his blocking. You don’t really see receivers do the things he did in college.

“He’s a tough individual. He’s going out here and blocking guys like (safety Kyle) Dugger and all that stuff. It’s great, it’s great to see. That mentality, that attitude at that position is important.”