Former Patriots receiver Javon Baker reportedly signing with Eagles practice squad
Baker had the option to return to New England's practice squad, but elected a fresh start in Philadelphia.
Javon Baker is reportedly heading to a new team for the 2025 season.
The 2024 fourth-round pick had a rollercoaster of a career in New England, and that remained true up until the very end of his tenure.
Heading into the week, it appeared Baker was on the bubble of making the Patriots’ 53-man roster. Come Tuesday’s 4 p.m. cutdown deadline, Baker had seemingly survived New England’s crowded receiver room and made the team. But on Wednesday, following a pair of waiver claims made by the Patriots, Baker was released.
Baker passed through waivers on Thursday evening, earning the right to choose where he signed next. He reportedly mulled multiple options — including a return to the Patriots practice squad which the team had hoped for — but ultimately signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz.
Making the move puts Baker in a position to play for a contender. But more importantly, gives the second-year receiver a fresh start. His rookie season was less than desirable for a fourth round pick, especially considering New England had a thin receiver group open for opportunities.
Baker appeared in 11 games in his rookie season, but registered just one catch for 12 yards. He did take on a special teams role in 2024, and looked like he’d continue to be a factor there this season if he hadn’t been cut by New England.
Before Baker was cut, new Patriots receiver Mack Hollins shared his advice about the value of playing on special teams.
“I’m on year nine, there’s not many people that play nine years, and a lot of that was special teams,” Hollins said. “Just telling Javon, ‘hey, it doesn’t matter how you stay on the bus, it’s that you’re on the bus’. Because then you get opportunities … everybody wants to play offense or defense, but there’s only so many spots. So if you can find a way to at least get a chance at that spot, take it.”
Just two years ago, Baker recorded 1,139 yards and seven touchdowns in his final college season at UCF. He showed promise worthy of his fourth round selection, and although things didn’t go well for Baker in Foxborough, he could get a chance to revamp his career with the defending Super Bowl champions.
Baker also gets to reunite with DeVonta Smith, who he was teammates with briefly at Alabama.
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