5 Patriots on the Hot Seat Entering Second Half of Season

These five New England Patriots are facing increased pressure as their seats heat up during the 2024 NFL season's second half.

New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo calls a play against the New York Jets during the second half at Gillette Stadium. / Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

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5. Ja'Lynn Polk, WR

After drafting Maye third overall in April, the Patriots used a 2024 second-rounder on Washington WR Ja'Lynn Polk. The 6-foot-1 playmaker oozed potential in his final collegiate campaign as he amassed career highs in receptions (69), receiving yards (1,159), and touchdown catches (9).

So, what did Polk have in store for the NFL level? Nothing so far, actually.

Despite playing 58% of offensive snaps, Polk has been targeted just 28 times in his first six games. He's only caught 11 of those opportunities (39.3%) for 80 receiving yards and a pair of TDs.

The situation has worsened in the last month or so as he's only made two catches for six yards and a score in his past four games.

Considering how the Patriots used a second-round pick on him, Polk likely isn't leaving town for another few years.

Nevertheless, Polk must find a way to elevate his performance if he wants to take over as the WR1 one day. It isn't college football anymore. Polk has to figure out a way to find NFL success before being passed on the depth chart by someone else.

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