Fantasy Football Player Notes

Demario Douglas emerged as a surprise contributor for the Patriots in 2023, showcasing his playmaking ability despite failing to find the end zone. Leading the team with 561 receiving yards without a touchdown, he demonstrated consistent involvement in the passing game with an 18% target share. From Week 7 onwards, Douglas maintained a significant role, posting a 21% target share and earning praise for his performance. However, the Patriots' decision to draft two wide receivers this year introduces competition, potentially impacting Douglas's role in the offense moving forward.

After overcoming an injury in his sophomore year, Ja'Lynn Polk delivered a stellar senior season with 69 receptions for 1,159 yards and nine touchdowns. Known for his quickness, strong hands, and excellent body control, Polk consistently makes difficult catches in traffic, showcasing his well-rounded skills. Drawing comparisons to NFL players like Mohamed Sanu, Tyler Boyd, and Joshua Palmer, Polk is considered a safe, reliable receiver. Selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Patriots, he is poised to become a dependable part of their passing game.

Javon Baker's path to the NFL took a significant turn when he transferred from Alabama to UCF, where he excelled with impressive dominator ratings in his final two seasons. Standing at 6-foot-1 and 202 pounds, Baker's skill set as a big-play threat was evident, highlighted by his high average yards per reception and yards after catch ability. Often compared to DeVonta Smith, Baker brings added size and route-running prowess to the table. Drafted by the Patriots in the fourth round, he joins a team with a relatively thin receiver depth chart, offering him ample opportunity to shine. Despite being chosen after Ja'Lynn Polk, Baker's consistent ability to make plays downfield suggests a high ceiling and the potential to emerge as a key figure in New England's passing game.

The Patriots re-signed Kendrick Bourne to a 3-year, $19.5 million contract. He will be 29 years old in 2024, coming off a Week 8 torn ACL injury. Before his injury, Bourne was the fantasy WR28 averaging 10.2 points per game in half-PPR (38th). Led the Patriots with a 19.4% target share with a 28% air yards share. He will likely be in the starter's chair until a rookie or younger WR usurps him on the depth chart.