The Husky Haul
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Don’t sleep on Washington football’s Ja’Lynn Polk

By Jordan Merritt

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 19: Ja'Lynn Polk #2 and Rome Odunze #1 of the Washington Huskies celebrate a touchdown which was later overturned against the Colorado Buffaloes during the first quarter at Husky Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - NOVEMBER 19: Ja'Lynn Polk #2 and Rome Odunze #1 of the Washington Huskies celebrate a touchdown which was later overturned against the Colorado Buffaloes during the first quarter at Husky Stadium on November 19, 2022 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /
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With all eyes on Odunze and McMillan, the Huskies have a third weapon at receiver in Ja’Lynn Polk.

After a 2022 breakout season for the Huskies offense under Kalen DeBoer, Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan were the talk of the wide receiver room. However, 2021 Texas Tech transfer Ja’Lynn Polk was also an important piece for the Huskies in 2022.

Standing at 6’2” and 205 pounds, Polk didn’t get to showcase his ability in 2021 after his transfer due to an early-season injury. In 2022, he contributed to the offense with 694 receiving yards from 41 receptions. He also led the team in average yards per target with 16.9 and registered 6 touchdowns.

Polk showed his value for the team in the statement win over Michigan State in week 3. The Texas native caught 6 receptions for 153 yards while nabbing 3 touchdowns. In the game, he demonstrated his ability to stretch the field with his speed and had a clear understanding with quarterback Michael Penix Jr. He also had numerous receptions that moved the chains in big moments across the season.

Polk looks to continue his form into a Washington football championship push

Heading into the 2023 season and with the Huskies tipped as outsiders to reach the college football playoffs, Ja’Lynn Polk will be a crucial cog in the DeBoer/Grubb offense. The connection he formed last season with quarterback Penix Jr in key situations was crucial. His experience in the offensive system alongside Odunze, McMillan, and others will be key again for a run at the PAC-12 conference title.

Ja’Lynn Polk’s name can get lost in the Husky WR room. However, his importance in this Washington football offense should not be dismissed. On top of all that, don’t be surprised to see his name pick up speed leading up to the NFL Draft. Polk has many attributes NFL teams will love and with another solid season, he could enter the 2024 NFL Draft and could easily be a Day 2 selection.

Next. Washington football predicted to win Fiesta Bowl over Ohio State. dark

The 2023 season is shaping up to be a fun one for the Huskies and Ja’Lynn Polk will have an important role to play again.

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