FOXBORO — Patriots rookie receiver Javon Baker and defensive back Marcus Jones were missing at Wednesday’s padded practice, the team’s first as it begins to prepare for Sunday’s game at Arizona.
Jones, who also missed a non-padded practice Monday, was spotted in the locker room wearing a mask, indicating he may be ill.
The reason for Baker’s absence is less clear. The fourth-round rookie still doesn’t have a catch this season and has seen just 32 offensive snaps while appearing in eight of a possible 13 games. The coaching staff appears intent on handing Baker and fellow rookie receiver Ja’Lynn Polk more opportunities down the stretch, though both have disappointed with their performance this season.
The Patriots worked inside their indoor practice bubble Wednesday amid rainy conditions and ahead of their first indoor game of the year.
The Pats will release their first injury report of the week late Wednesday afternoon.