Patriots Beat: Optimism high around WR Ja'Lynn Polk

Aug 20, 2024

Ja’Lynn Polk likely will be one of the starting wide receivers when Week 1 arrives, at least until Kendrick Bourne returns from injury. Polk’s training camp hasn’t been spectacular or filled with other-worldly catches, but he has been consistent and done enough for the quarterbacks to trust him.

Demario Douglas probably has been the best wide receiver, but Polk isn’t far behind. He might start behind K.J. Osborn on the depth chart, but optimism is high around the second-round pick out of Washington.

Related players: Javon Baker

Fantasy Impact:

While optimism is high around Polk, it sounds like even if he doesn't get a starting job out of the gate, it should only be a matter of time. Meanwhile, fourth round pick Baker started strong, but looks to be further down the depth chart after a tough stretch, according to the rest of the story. Baker is dealing with drops in practice and running with the fourth-string QB at times. The story said he'll likely start as the team's WR4 or WR5.

today

Justin Jefferson (quad) considered “day to day”

39 minutes ago

Vikings WR Justin Jefferson is considered “day to day” after suffering a quadricep contusion during Sunday’s win over the 49ers.

Fantasy Impact:

Jefferson doesn’t seem overly concerned about the injury. “I’m not seriously injured,” Jefferson told the media after the game. Jefferson dealt with a hamstring injury last season but this sounds like it will be a minor issue. Jefferson believes he’ll be ready to go for Week 3 against the Texans.

yesterday

Hollywood Brown not expected to play in regular season

Adam Schefter

yesterday · 6:55 PM EDT

Chiefs WR Hollywood Brown is not expected to play during the regular season due to his shoulder injury.

Fantasy Impact:

Brown needs surgery on his shoulder. He was already placed on injured reserve and now his season ends before even taking a regular season snap with the Chiefs. This should means plenty of deep targets for rookie Xavier Worthy, as well as work in the run game, as we saw against the Ravens. Rashee Rice will gobble up targets as the main weapon for Patrick Mahomes. Unfortunate news for Hollywood.

A.J. Brown (hamstring) misses practices Saturday, questionable for Monday vs. Falcons

Tom Pelissero

yesterday · 4:16 PM EDT

Eagles WR A.J. Brown did not practice Saturday due to a hamstring injury and is listed as questionable for Monday’s game against the Falcons.

Fantasy Impact:

Brown began feeling tightness in his hamstring during practice Friday and Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said the team would be “cautious” with him Saturday. So this could be a case of the Eagles just giving him some rest before Monday’s game. If Brown can’t go, Jahan Dotson could be in line for a bigger role Monday. If possible, have a backup option ready for Brown, such as Dotson if he’s available.