Alex Van Pelt Offers Early Impressions Of Patriots Rookie Ja’Lynn Polk

Although the Patriots are most likely to deploy DeMario Douglas and Kendrick Bourne as their top two receivers, rookie Ja'Lynn Polk could have an incredibly productive season for New England.

The Patriots have been trying for quite some time to draft and develop a No. 1 wide receiver, and even though it's only the preseason, there are reasons to be optimistic about Polk. He's definitely caught the eye of Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt.

"He's a competitor," Van Pelt told reporters on Thursday, per team video. "He has unbelievable ball skills. He's tough. He does the dirty work in the run game. Really smart player as well. Really, really happy with where he is right now."

Head coach Jerod Mayo has been a fan of Polk since the Patriots began scouting the rookie wideout before the draft.

"He's just one of those guys when he puts the pads on, he's that much better," Mayo told reporters at the beginning of the month. "He does the dirty work. He also can run great routes, has great hands. One of those all-around players you want to build your team around. I would also say he does flash some leadership ability, which I definitely appreciate."

Polk has emerged as the Patriots' second-best receiver behind Douglas, especially with Bourne currently sidelined. He's made highlight reel plays in practice and stacked days consistently.