The New Orleans Saints have acquired wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk from the New England Patriots in a trade finalized on Saturday. Polk, a 2024 second-round draft pick, is currently on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Alongside Polk, the Saints will also receive a 2028 seventh-round draft pick, while sending a 2027 sixth-round pick to the Patriots in exchange.
Polk’s Draft Struggles And Injury Place Future In Doubt Before Saints Trade
Polk entered the NFL as the 37th overall pick after the Patriots traded down from the 34th spot, which allowed the Los Angeles Chargers to select receiver Ladd McConkey. The move quickly drew criticism as McConkey enjoyed an impressive rookie season, while Polk struggled to establish himself in New England. One pivotal moment came in Week 5 against the Dolphins, when a late touchdown catch by Polk was overturned, sealing a 15-10 Patriots loss.
Ja’Lynn Polk (NFL)The arrival of a new coaching staff under Mike Vrabel in 2025 left Polk’s roster spot in question even before his shoulder injury. His placement on injured reserve further limited his chances of competing for a role. Given the Patriots’ offensive struggles and Polk’s lack of consistent production, his future with the team was already in jeopardy, which paved the way for the trade to New Orleans.
Saints Strengthen Wide Receiver Corps, Patriots Reshuffle Roster Under New Leadership
This trade marks the second time in a month that the Saints have added depth at wide receiver. In August, the team acquired Devaughn Vele from the Denver Broncos, giving up a 2026 fourth-round and a 2027 seventh-round pick in return. By bringing in both Polk and Vele, the Saints appear committed to strengthening their receiving corps for the upcoming season.
Alongside the Polk trade, the Patriots also made other roster adjustments. Defensive back Kobee Minor and linebacker Mark Robinson were elevated from the practice squad to the active roster. These moves reflect the Patriots’ ongoing efforts to reshape their lineup under Vrabel while dealing with injuries and performance challenges heading into the new season.
