‘We’ll see him more and more’

Javon Baker was a healthy scratch during last week’s win against the Bengals, but is expected to see more opportunities as he continues to develop, according to Patriots receivers coach Tyler Hughes.

“I would say that I think probably outside of quarterback the hardest position to play as a rookie is receiver because of all the details,” Hughes said. “I think he’s on schedule in terms of his development. He’s doing some good things. I think we’ll see him more and more as the season goes on. I would think so.”

“Obviously he has to continue to earn those opportunities,” Hughes added. “And when he goes those he’ll need to make something happen within those but he’s a guy that I think as the season goes on we’ll see a little bit more.”

The fourth-round pick showed flashes early during training camp with a knack for highlight-reel catches. He also has had his share of drops and issues staying inbounds on certain routes.

In general, catching the football with consistency is a skill that can be improved over time, Hughes said.

“As a receiver, you should be working on getting as many catches as possible” Hughes said. “Whether that’s out on the practice field just with the coaches throwing to you , the quarterbacks, and then the JUGS machine. They should be getting hundreds of catches really each workday. The more catches they get, the better off they’re going to be. It’s definitely a skill that can be improved.”

Patriots coach Jerod Mayo was asked on Wednesday whether Baker’s lack of playing time was for disciplinary reasons.

Baker faced an undisclosed punishment from the team for broadcasting a rant about police after receiving a parking ticket at Logan Airport. Mayo had previously said that the punishment did not rise to the level of Baker missing a game.

“I don’t want to get into a lot of that,” Mayo said. “What I will say is he has to continue to progress and continue to develop, both on the field and off the field, and that’s my responsibility ultimately.”

Hughes said the decision had to do with the matchup with the Bengals.

“You have your game plan and you’re just trying to think ‘how can we win this particular game’,” Hughes said. “That made him inactive this particular game, but again, I think we’ll see more of him.”