One recurring topic in Bill Belichick’s last years as head coach of the New England Patriots was his incapacity to develop wide receivers. With a new coaching staff, maybe Javon Baker, a fourth-round draft pick, can help to change that.

Steve Smith Sr., a five-time Pro Bowler, told ESPN’s Mike Reiss that he compares Baker to a combination of Chad Johnson and Brandon Lloyd.

“He’s willing to put his body on the line to secure the catch and making an acrobatic or diving catch, which isn’t always necessary [like Lloyd] if you just take an extra step,” Smith stated. “With Chad, it’s his footwork, his releases, quick feet, upright, tall.”

Johnson played for 11 years and was twice selected as an All-Pro. He was definitely in the elite tier at the position when he was at the height of his career with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Although Lloyd is a deeper cut, some fans may remember him. In 2010, the 11-year veteran led the NFL in receiving yards and was a Pro Bowl player. And he put together an incredible highlight reel.

Report on Bleachers NFL scout Derrik Klassen likened Baker to Kendrick Bourne, a receiver for the Patriots.

He stated in his analysis, “Baker is effective with the ball in his hands.” In addition to having outstanding balance and some explosive talent, he runs at a reasonably natural pace. He’s the kind that can reliably transform five yards into ten.

Baker may need some time to polish the remainder of his game before seeing a lot of action in the NFL due to his dubious physicality and lack of an instant impact. Nevertheless, he fits the mold of a player in development who has the potential to develop into a valuable outside vertical threat.”

Baker might be a very useful addition to New England’s second-round pick Ja’Lynn Polk. Polk has a lower potential ceiling but projects as a more reliable pass-catcher.

With quarterback Drake Maye, Baker, and Polk in the mix, New England is hoping the draft produced the foundation of their aerial assault for an extended period of time.