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Patriots Send Message to Struggling Rookie on 1st Play of Week 12 Game

Javon Baker's poor season reached a new low in Week 12.

By Joe Summers

Oct 27, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo calls a play against the New York Jets during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Oct 27, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo calls a play against the New York Jets during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images / Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
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Patriots rookie WR Javon Baker has endured a poor start to his NFL career and now, New England head coach Jerod Mayo has elected to send a message to the overconfident rookie.

Baker has been a frequent special teams player for the team but was apparently benched prior to a Week 12 game against the Dolphins, getting usurped as a returner in a critical contest.

While the rookie has plenty of promise, it's clear he hasn't yet become popular among the coaching staff.

Patriots Bench Rookie WR Javon Baker Early in Week 12

It's notable that Baker is still highly regarded overall. He's a talented receiver who hasn't performed to expecations, though it's hard to identify a Patriot who has enjoyed a good season.

Baker hasn't caught a single pass in his rookie campaign, merely appearing on special teams despite overwhelming promise. His off-field antics have drawn ire from fans, suggesting the issues are more mental than physical.

Mayo and the rest of the coaches seemingly believe in Baker's long-term potential, scheming up a target for him early in the contest. Miami is a superior team, providing New England with an opportunity to evaluate their young roster.

Drake Maye looks every bit like an early draft selection, making several huge plays each week. Baker's development is tied to Maye's, as each player needs the other to be successful to achieve their respective goals.

This is likely just a responsible coaching staff teaching a rookie a lesson. Otherwise, there are significant issues moving forward.

Baker and fellow draftee Ja'Lynn Polk represent the foundation of New England's receivers. Neither has performed well yet each have enough potential that it seems punishments like this are worth it. Baker's early involvement, at the least, implies Mayo was merely trying to teach him something.

Hopefully the lesson is welcomed with open arms. Otherwise, the Patriots could have a big problem on their hands in trying to develop Maye with a poor skill-position group.

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