New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots initially had eight wide receivers at their disposal after making their roster cuts on Tuesday. After claiming quarterback Tommy DeVito and cornerback Charles Woods, though, that resulted in Kendrick Bourne and Javon Baker getting released.
In the wake of his release, it was clear that Bourne’s time in New England was over. Reports indicated he wanted a fresh start, and he quickly lined up free agent visits with the San Francisco 49ers and Washington Commanders.
Baker, on the other hand, seemed like a candidate to stick around with the Patriots on their practice squad. That didn’t end up happening, though, as Baker has reportedly decided to sign with the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad instead.
“The Eagles are expected to sign former Patriots wide receiver Javon Baker to their practice squad, sources tell CBS Sports,” Matt Zenitz reported in a post on X. “Was a fourth-round draft pick of New England last year and played in 11 games as a rookie for the Patriots last season.”
A fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Baker ultimately ended up losing the battle for the final wide receiver spot on New England’s roster to Efton Chism III. Baker flashed at times during training camp, but he ultimately wasn’t consistent enough to earn a roster spot.
Whether or not a return to the Patriots as a practice squad player was an option is unknown, but either way, Baker will join the reigning Super Bowl champions and work on developing behind the scenes.
For now, New England will roll into the season with a group of six wide receivers they feel good about. As for Baker, he may be on the practice squad for now, but if someone on the active roster gets injured, he could find himself suiting up for Philadelphia before he knows it.
