Patriots get weapon for Maye, take Polk in 2nd

The New England Patriots selected Washington wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 37 overall.

The Patriots kicked off a new era by selecting Drake Maye at No. 3 but needed to address their rookie quarterback's supporting cast.

With DeMario Douglas, K.J. Osborn, and Kendrick Bourne sitting atop the depth chart, New England needed a receiver capable of playing on the outside.

Polk can fill that role for the Patriots: He racked up 1,159 yards and nine touchdowns in 2023 as part of the Huskies' high-flying offense.

Pre-draft profile

Polk, one of three talented Washington receivers in this draft class, comes with a stable floor. He's good at operating in space, can create an adequate amount of separation, is exceptional at coming down with tough catches in traffic, and can play inside and out. The mystery is deciphering what his ceiling is. The Washington product lacks elite top speed, and it's unclear how well he'll play against more physical cornerbacks who won't gift him a free release. He's also made a few focus drops despite excelling at making tough grabs. Polk projects as a boundary receiver who can shift to the slot if his lack of elite athleticism catches up to him.