The NFL world was left reeling on Friday when news broke that 2024 fourth-round pick Javon Baker, recently released by the New England Patriots, has chosen to join the Philadelphia Eagles’ practice squad over returning to Foxboro. ESPN’s Mike Reiss reported that Baker, after considering “multiple options,” including a potential spot on the Patriots’ practice squad, opted for a fresh start with the defending Super Bowl champions in a move that has shocked fans and analysts alike.
Baker’s tenure with the Patriots was nothing short of tumultuous. Selected out of UCF in the 2024 NFL Draft, the wide receiver entered the league with bold claims, famously stating he could “make people in wheelchairs stand up” with his playmaking ability. However, his rookie season failed to live up to the hype. Baker played in just 12 percent of New England’s offensive snaps, recording a meager one catch for 12 yards. His minimal impact on the field was overshadowed by off-field missteps, including a social media outburst over a traffic ticket that resulted in team discipline and a missed curfew in London before the Patriots’ matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Despite a promising preseason where Baker showed flashes of potential and earned praise from head coach Mike Vrabel for his special teams contributions, the 23-year-old could not secure a lasting spot in New England’s crowded receiver room. The Patriots, who initially kept Baker on their 53-man roster after Tuesday’s cutdown day, made the surprising decision to release him on Wednesday. While New England still had an open practice squad spot, Baker cleared waivers at 4 p.m. ET on Thursday, making him free to sign with any NFL team.
In a stunning turn of events, Baker chose to join the Eagles’ practice squad, a move that signals his desire for a clean slate with a championship-caliber team. The decision marks a significant snub to the Patriots, who had invested a fourth-round pick in the young wideout just a year ago. Baker’s departure leaves only two players from New England’s 2024 draft class—quarterback Drake Maye and offensive lineman Caedan Wallace—on the active roster, with wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk and cornerback Marcellas Dial sidelined on season-ending injured reserve.
The Patriots also parted ways with veteran wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, who is reportedly exploring options with the San Francisco 49ers and Washington Commanders in free agency. The rapid turnover in New England’s receiving corps underscores the team’s ongoing struggle to solidify its offensive identity.
For Baker, the move to Philadelphia offers a chance to develop under a new coaching staff and alongside a talented roster. The Eagles, fresh off a Super Bowl victory, provide an environment where Baker can refine his skills and potentially earn a future role on the active roster. While his time in New England may be remembered as a disappointment, Baker’s bold decision to bet on himself in Philly could prove to be a pivotal moment in his young career.
The NFL world will be watching closely to see if Baker can turn his potential into production with the Eagles, or if this shocking U-turn will become another footnote in a career that has yet to take flight.