Patriots Potential Game-Breaking WR Makes 53-Man Roster

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots may be continuing their “popcorn” consumption for the foreseeable future, after all.

The Patriots, per MassLive’s Mark Daniels, are retaining the services wide receiver Javon Baker. The second-year wideout, who once told Patriots fans to get their favorite “movie-time” snack ready in preparation for his exciting style of play, has made the team’s initial 53-man roster.

The Patriots fourth-round (No. 110 overall) pick in last year's draft had been making a late camp push — showing promise as both as receiver and a special teamer. The only question remaining was whether or not he had done enough throuhgout the past month to make the initial “53.”

Though the answer to that question has now become official, Baker may have provided some additional drama by deleting his team-related connections on Instagram, as well as unfollowing the team on the social media platform.

Despite showing flashes of the explosive playmaking ability which made him a standout at the University of Central Florida, Baker’s production as a receiver cooled a bit in the waning days of prseason. He was targeted twice during the Pats’ 42-10 loss to the New York Giants on Thursday night, but dropped both passes from now former Patriots’ quarterback Ben Wooldridge.

In the final analysis, Baker was sporadically able to capture the same game-breaking prowess as a playmaker which made him notable post-draft buzz last season. Still, his potential as a receiver, as well as his special teams contributions allowed him to be successful in his efforts. The 6’1” 202-pound receiver was coming off a stellar season at UCF, which saw him compile 52 receptions, seven of which went for touchdowns. He also led the Big 12 in receiving yards with 1,139 and yards-per-catch with 21.9, en route to being named to the Conference’s First-Team.

While the 23-year-old ultimately did lock in his spot within a crowded receivers depth chart, Baker possesses both the versatility and explosive skill to become a significant contributor to both the Patriots offense and special teams units.