Patriots Rumors: Why Rookie Wide Receiver Missed Minicamp

Javon Baker was a prospect fans were interested in observing this offseason, but he has yet to make an impact. Patriots supporters knew why during the week of training camp.

Baker made explosive comments after being drafted in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft that excited New England fans to see what he could do for an offense bereft of talent. However, the 22-year-old largely didn't practice at mandatory minicamp in the spring; the rookie wide receiver did partial work on a separate field, and head coach Jerod Mayo did not formally address his absence.

According to the Boston Herald's Andrew Callahan, Baker missed multiple practices due to a thumb fracture. Rookies reported to training camp Friday, and the Patriots released photos from rookie practice. One of those photos was of Baker catching passes, so it would seem the UCF product is at least partially cleared to practice for training camp starting Wednesday.

Baker is coming off a collegiate season where he recorded 52 receptions for 1,139 yards and seven touchdowns in his senior year, which earned him first-team All-Big 12 honors. He'll compete with fellow rookie Ja'Lynn Polk in a crowded receiver room to try to earn consistent playing time in his first season in the NFL.