Patriots' Ja'Lynn Polk Sidelined With Shoulder Injury During Preseason Opener

Patriots wide receiver Ja'Lynn Polk suffered a left arm/shoulder injury during the second quarter of the team's preseason opener against the Washington Commanders, forcing him to leave the game early and miss practices this week. Polk is currently battling for one of the final roster spots amid a crowded receiving group that includes likely locks such as Stefon Diggs, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams. Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed Polk will not participate in the upcoming joint practices with the Vikings in Minnesota and is aiming to be ready for the preseason finale against the New York Giants. Polk's injury adds to his ongoing challenges since being drafted in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, including offseason shoulder surgery and a soft tissue injury that limited his training camp availability. Meanwhile, other receivers like Javon Baker and Efton Chism are expected to see increased reps due to injuries within the group. Additionally, cornerback Christian Gonzalez will be present at the joint practices but not participate on the field.