The Patriots' wide receiver room has been among the most competitive battles on the team since the start of the offseason. They initially had 12 players signed, and over the last few months, that has sporadically changed, but a few names have remained at the top and even locked up a spot on the roster for the season ahead.
Others have been actively competing all summer long, and fortunately for some, they looked strong early on and appeared well on their way to making the team. One of those players had been second-year receiver Javon Baker, who had a tough rookie season filled with a lack of opportunities and off-the-field distractions.
He appeared determined to change that under the new regime and began to pick things up during training camp, creating an opportunity to get more snaps during the preseason. But a forgettable showing against the Vikings last weekend might have been enough to seal his fate.
The Patriots wide receiver competition might have just gotten a new opening
Despite having some standout practices over the last few weeks, some of which Baker had the highlight play of the day for the offense, he hasn't been able to maintain that kind of production once a game begins.
That was apparent (again) during the Patriots' matchup with the Vikings, as he caught just one reception on seven passes, recorded a drop, and had a false start. On top of that, he was inconsistent with his route running, indicating a lack of progress, and that might have moved him swiftly down the depth chart once again.
With just one preseason game left, there's not much time for Baker to turn things around. The only silver lining for his chances appears to be the continued absence of Kendrick Bourne, who Mike Vrabel already stated won't be practicing this week, along with new injuries to Efton Chism and Kyle Williams, both of whom will be absent, as well.
That could provide Baker with another chance to prove himself with more opportunities for reps during practice and maybe even the preseason finale against the Giants this week.
If not, there's a good chance he will be looking to play elsewhere this season, which would be another bad look for the organization with more failed draft picks piling up.