Patriots Coach Teases Bigger Role for Disappointing WR

The 2024 New England Patriots have a lot of problems on the field. They struggled on both ends throughout the season, and that was to be expected. One of the most disappointing aspects of their season so far has been the performance of their wide receivers. The passing offense has been near the bottom of the league in all metrics, ranking second-to-last in both yards and touchdowns for the season.

Obviously, some of that has to do with the scheme and inconsistent quarterback play. Yet, some of it is on the WR room. No wideout on the team is averaging even 35 yards per game, and no one has scored more than one touchdown.

Like the rest of the WR rotation, the second-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Ja'Lynn Polk, has been a disappointment through the first half of the season. However, Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt still believes in the talented rookie. Speaking to media ahead of the Week 10 matchup against the Bears, Van Pelt teased a bigger role for Polk going forward.

"Just got to get him in there and get him acclimated again, get him back in there and find some targets for him. Very capable receiver, loved what he did in college. Had a great summer for us. Just gotta get him reset and get back into it."

- Patriots OC Alex Van Pelt

This makes sense considering where the Patriots are in their rebuilding. They are not going anywhere this season and getting their young WR with the most upside more reps and targets is a good idea for their future.

So far this season, Polk has only been able to reel in ten of his 27 targets. Like the rest of the team, he has struggled with catching and ball security. He has 78 yards and a touchdown this season. For the Patriots to feel better about their draft pick, Polk needs to show more in the second half of the season. It is a good sign that the team is aware of that reality.

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