Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

New England Patriots WR Javon Baker Has 10-Word Message to NFL After Draft Slide

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Matt Lombardo | Last updated 4/27/24

Former UCF wide receiver Javon Baker expected to be chosen long before hearing his name called by the New England Patriots with the No. 110 overall pick in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Shortly after landing with the Patriots, where he’ll play a starring role opposite fellow incoming rookie Ja’Lynn Polk in Drake Maye’s supporting cast, Baker threw down the gauntlet with his message to the rest of the NFL.

“Just kill whoever is on the other side of me,” Baker told reporters, when asked about his mentality after sliding further down the board than he’d have expected.

Last season, Baker averaged a downright prolific 21.9 yards per reception while catching 52 passes for a career-high 1,139 yards with seven touchdowns.

“He uses speed changes and route leverage to create separation,” NFL Media’s Lance Zierlein writes of Baker. “And he’s at his best working the second and third levels from either inside or outside. The ball skills are NFL-caliber, but the hands will lose focus at times. Baker has the traits and skill level of an NFL receiver and should fight for an eventual shot as a WR3/4.”