Ja’Lynn Polk’s redemption story won’t be authored in 2025.
The embattled Patriots receiver will miss all of this season due to a shoulder injury he suffered during New England’s preseason opener against the Washington Commanders, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. Polk’s injury, which will require surgery, is to the same shoulder that underwent a procedure last offseason.
“Sources: Patriots WR Ja’Lynn Polk will miss the entire 2025 season due to a shoulder injury that requires surgery,” Schultz wrote Thursday in an X post. “The 2024 second-round pick saw multiple specialists, and surgery was determined to be the best course of action — with the goal of being fully healthy for 2026.”
Selected 37th overall in the 2024 NFL draft, Polk endured a wretched rookie campaign in New England.
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After turning in an impressive first training camp, the Washington product posted just 12 catches for 87 yards and two touchdowns across 15 regular season games. Along the way, Polk’s confidence appeared to plummet, and his professionalism — or lack thereof — came into question.
The 23-year-old entered this summer looking to re-establish himself as an intriguing piece of the future. Now, he’ll have to wait at least another year to prove the Patriots right for drafting him in the second round.
It’s easier to get a clear picture of New England’s receiver room with Polk now out of view. Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins, Kayshon Boutte and Kyle Williams probably are roster looks, with undrafted rookie Efton Chism III likely earning a roster spot as well. If the Patriots decide to roster seven wideouts, the decision could come down to veteran Kendrick Bourne and sophomore Javon Baker.
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