In a promising start to their preseason, the New England Patriots secured a 27-3 lead against the Washington Commanders. However, the game took a serious turn when second-year wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk suffered an apparent arm or shoulder injury in the second quarter. After a play where he gained just one yard, Polk was seen on the ground and subsequently left the game to receive medical attention. He returned to the sidelines momentarily but then exited for the locker room with a towel over his head.

This setback comes as Polk was looking to build on his rookie year, having been a second-round draft pick in 2024. His performance in the preseason opener was anticipated as an opportunity to showcase his development and skill set. Given the team's depth at the receiver position, this injury could have implications not only for his playing time but also for the overall dynamics of the Patriots’ offense moving forward.