Patriots rookie sounds like young Tom Brady in message to Robert Kraft
With the start of the Jerod Mayo era in New England, it was just a matter of time before players began to show more personality on and off the field and a determination to be one of the best players on the team.
That became even more apparent with the emphasis on selecting offensive weapons in the draft earlier this year, as the Patriots picked players with big personalities to add to their roster.
Javon Baker was the first to make headlines when it was announced he was the team's 110th pick in the fourth round. He made it abundantly clear that he should have been chosen earlier, and he was going to use his late selection as fuel to prove to every team that passed on him why it was a mistake to do so.
Drake Maye and Ja'Lynn Polk have remained quiet since joining the team, relying on their on-field performance to do the talking. But that changed last week when Polk spoke to reporters after practice and sent a message to Robert Kraft reminiscent of an infamous Tom Brady quote.
Ja'Lynn Polk sends familiar message to Patriots owner Robert Kraft
Because Kraft is known to be present for practices, the first week of training camp was no different. What stood out, however, was his stops to have conversations with a few players while making his way across the field, one of whom was the rookie receiver.
After sharing his appreciation for the team owner and a few complimentary words, Polk took a moment to send a message to Kraft regarding what he should expect from him now that he's part of the team.
"I just let him know, man, I feel like my expectations for myself is very high. This organization, I just want to let everyone know that each and every day, every time I step out here, you’re going to get the best of me. I’m going to leave it all out there every single day."
It was something straight out of the Tom Brady handbook, which Kraft has famously quoted as introducing himself as the "best decision the organization has ever made." While Brady has a different recollection of the interaction, stating he actually said Kraft would "never regret" picking him, the message remains the same, which appears to be similar to the message sent by Polk.
It might not be as direct or assertive as what the GOAT allegedly said all those years ago, but it is quite a confident introduction by the rookie to the organization.
So far, he's lived up to the hype and has been a top performer throughout the offseason, including training camp. Polk has looked every bit worthy of his second-round selection, and with pads coming out for practice this week, it will be impressive if he keeps it up as things get more competitive.