Mike Reiss
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — New England Patriots extensive receiver Ja'Lynn Polk, the 2024 second-round choose who's hoping to rebound from a difficult rookie season through which he was restricted to 12 receptions for 87 yards, will endure shoulder surgical procedure that might threaten his 2025 season, a supply confirmed to ESPN.
How lengthy the damage in the end sidelines Polk, and if he may doubtlessly return in some unspecified time in the future later within the season, will likely be contingent on what docs discover in surgical procedure, a supply stated.
The damage occurred within the Patriots' preseason opener Aug. 8 when Polk was tackled on a 1-yard run round left finish by Washington Commanders defensive again Noah Igbinoghene and landed on his proper aspect. Polk instantly got here out of the sport, holding his proper arm, and hasn't practiced since.
The Patriots chosen Polk thirty seventh final season, having traded down from No. 34 with the Los Angeles Chargers, who chosen receiver Ladd McConkey — an alternate that has dramatically favored the Chargers after McConkey totaled 82 receptions for 1,149 yards and 7 touchdowns.
Below former coach Jerod Mayo and former offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, the 6-foot-1, 203-pound Polk appeared in 15 video games (seven begins) final season, totaling 45% of the offensive snaps, earlier than being positioned on injured reserve within the closing week of the common season resulting from a shoulder damage.
Polk was eyeing a recent begin underneath the brand new regime of coach Mike Vrabel and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, however even earlier than the damage he confronted an uphill climb to safe a roster spot behind Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, DeMario Douglas, Mack Hollins and 2025 third-round choose Kyle Williams.
Regardless of passing his preliminary bodily upon reporting to coaching camp, Polk had been held out of the primary 4 practices this summer season after experiencing muscle tightness, in line with a supply.
Upon his return, he labored principally with the reserves main as much as the damage within the preseason opener.
NFL reporter Jordan Schultz first reported Polk's standing.
