FOXBOROUGH – The last time Javon Baker made a tackle was in high school.

The first time he played on a special teams unit as a gunner was Friday night inside Gillette Stadium . The Patriots’ 2024 fourth-round pick is embracing his role on Mike Vrabel’s team – even if it means operating like a core special teamer.

Baker didn’t catch a pass in the team’s preseason opener . Instead, he impressed his head coach by making two special teams tackles.

After the game, Baker said he wasn’t focused on special teams play heading into this season, but is willing to do whatever he can to earn a role on the team.

“I never played special teams until this year – until that game,” Baker told MassLive. “Whatever coach wants me to do, I’ll just do it. Just create a role on this team. If it’s that, b

See Full Page