FOXBORO, Mass. — It was an underwhelming first half of the season for New England Patriots large receiver Javon Baker.
The fourth-round rookie performed a mixed 14 offensive snaps in 10 video games together with an an identical 4 snaps in every of the final two contests. Nonetheless, the very fact Baker has been lively in three consecutive video games signifies he’s taken steps in the precise path after three straight wholesome scratches.
Baker struck an optimistic tone concerning his behind-the-scenes growth and burdened he’s enjoying the function being requested of him.
“Every thing’s good,” Baker instructed NESN.com within the Patriots locker room Wednesday. “I’m simply enjoying my function. That is my function proper now so I’ll play it.”
Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo mentioned Baker, very similar to any rookie, is “nonetheless a piece in progress.” Mayo on Wednesday credited Baker for being “nice” in assembly rooms, a completely different sentiment than what was supplied earlier this season.
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Mayo is hopeful it should translate to the sphere within the close to future.
“I’m progressing nicely. Every thing’s good,” Baker mentioned.
The Patriots have made an effort to offer youthful, developmental gamers extra alternatives in current weeks. Within the receiver room, veterans Okay.J. Osborn and Kendrick Bourne have performed much less whereas Tyquan Thornton was inactive 4 of the final 5 video games. It’s supplied extra probabilities for second-year wideout Kayshon Boutte, rookie Ja’Lynn Polk, amongst others.
Baker, although, isn’t regarding himself with the conditions of teammates.
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“Different folks ain’t obtained nothing to do with me. So, I can’t communicate on no person else,” Baker mentioned. “My function is my function on this group. It’s my function proper now. So, simply enjoying my function.”
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Baker mentioned he hasn’t had conversations with Mayo or large receivers coach Tyler Hughes about what he can do to play extra.
The Patriots host the Los Angeles Rams at Gillette Stadium on Sunday afternoon, and maybe followers will see Baker obtain a possibility better than what he’s been given to this point.