Steve Smith Sr. Critiques Patriots Coaches Over Rookie WR Ja’Lynn Polk’s Struggles

BOSTON, Mass. — NFL legend Steve Smith Sr. has voiced concerns over the development of New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk, suggesting that coaching decisions played a significant role in his underwhelming performance during the 2024 season.

The Patriots selected Polk in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, bypassing other prospects like Ladd McConkey. However, the rookie finished the season with only 12 receptions for 87 yards and two touchdowns. His struggles included dropped passes and difficulty in creating separation from defenders, leading to a lack of targets in the latter half of the season.

Smith specifically pointed fingers at the coaching staff, particularly Tiquan Underwood, regarding Polk’s alleged stagnation. In remarks made during a broadcast, he stated, “That explains a lot now. I’m stuck on the [Tiquan] Underwood. Now I’m like, ‘Oh, I see where he got that from.’ My bad. Not his fault for real. That’s like trying to have somebody with diabetes tell you to stop eating sweets. Come on now. That’s like an elephant trying to teach a dolphin to swim.”

Despite his critical comments, Smith clarified that he did not intend disrespect towards Underwood. He underscored his belief that Polk faced unfair challenges in a season marked by overall struggles for the Patriots’ offense.

The Patriots’ 2024 season was a tumultuous one, with the team posting a dismal 4-13 record. The failure to integrate Polk effectively has raised questions about the team’s offensive strategies and coaching effectiveness.

In a broader context, the Patriots are undergoing changes aimed at revitalizing their coaching staff, including hiring coaches like Doug Marrone and promoting Jeremy Springer, who seek to improve both player development and performance metrics. John Streicher, another rising coach, is expected to contribute to refining in-game tactics.

As the franchise attempts to turn the corner, former quarterback Drew Bledsoe expressed renewed hope for the team’s future under coach Mike Vrabel, predicting playoff contention within the next few years. “I would predict that within the next two, three, four years, they’re gonna be contenders again,” Bledsoe said in a recent podcast.

With the Patriots holding the most salary cap space in the NFL and the No. 4 overall pick in the upcoming draft, the opportunity for significant roster improvements and coaching adjustments could potentially lead to a turnaround for the beleaguered franchise.