Former Patriots 2024 pick Javon Baker set to join Eagles

Javon Baker is reportedly heading to a brand new workforce for the 2025 season.

The 2024 fourth-round choose had a rollercoaster of a profession in New England, and that remained true up till the very finish of his tenure.

Heading into the week, it appeared Baker was on the bubble of constructing the Patriots’ 53-man roster. Come Tuesday’s 4 p.m. cutdown deadline, Baker had seemingly survived New England’s crowded receiver room and made the workforce. However on Wednesday, following a pair of waiver claims made by the Patriots, Baker was released.

Baker handed by waivers on Thursday night, incomes the fitting to decide on the place he signed subsequent. He reportedly mulled a number of choices — together with a return to the Patriots follow squad which the workforce had hoped for — however in the end signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.

Making the transfer places Baker ready to play for a contender. However extra importantly, offers the second-year receiver a contemporary begin. His rookie season was lower than fascinating for a fourth spherical choose, particularly contemplating New England had a skinny receiver group open for alternatives.

Baker appeared in 11 video games in his rookie season, however registered only one catch for 12 yards. He did tackle a particular groups position in 2024, and appeared like he’d proceed to be an element there this season if he hadn’t been reduce by New England.

Earlier than Baker was reduce, new Patriots receiver Mack Hollins shared his recommendation concerning the worth of taking part in on particular groups.

“I’m on yr 9, there’s not many individuals that play 9 years, and a variety of that was particular groups,” Hollins mentioned. “Simply telling Javon, ‘hey, it doesn’t matter the way you keep on the bus, it’s that you just’re on the bus’. As a result of then you definately get alternatives … all people needs to play offense or protection, however there’s solely so many spots. So if you will discover a strategy to not less than get an opportunity at that spot, take it.”

Simply two years in the past, Baker recorded 1,139 yards and 7 touchdowns in his ultimate school season at UCF. He confirmed promise worthy of his fourth spherical choice, and though issues didn’t go effectively for Baker in Foxborough, he may get an opportunity to revamp his profession with the defending Tremendous Bowl champions.

Baker additionally will get to reunite with DeVonta Smith, who he was teammates with briefly at Alabama.