Steve Smith Sr. Hypes Patriots' Javon Baker, Compares to Chad Johnson, Brandon Lloyd

The New England Patriots' inability to develop wide receivers was a steady theme during Bill Belichick's final years as head coach. Perhaps fourth-round draft pick Javon Baker can help to change that under a new coaching staff.

Five-time Pro Bowler Steve Smith Sr. told ESPN's Mike Reiss he sees Baker as a mix of Brandon Lloyd and Chad Johnson.

"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 said. "With Chad, it's his footwork, his releases, quick feet, upright, tall."

Johnson was a two-time All-Pro during an 11-year career. At his peak with the Cincinnati Bengals, he was unquestionably in the elite category at the position.

Lloyd is a deeper cut but one some fans will recall. The 11-year veteran was a Pro Bowler and led the NFL in receiving yards in 2010. And he compiled one heck of a highlight reel.

Bleacher Report NFL scout Derrik Klassen compared Baker to Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne.

"With the ball in his hands, Baker is effective," he wrote in his breakdown. "He shows some explosive ability and good balance to pair with a fairly natural pace as a runner. He is the type who can turn five yards into 10 consistently.

"Baker's questionable physicality and lack of immediate burst may mean he'll need time to hone the rest of his game before seeing the field a lot in the NFL. Still, he profiles well as a developmental player who can become a useful vertical threat on the outside."

Baker could be a particularly effective complement for Ja'Lynn Polk, New England's second-rounder. Polk profiles as a more consistent pass-catcher albeit with a lower ceiling on his potential.

Between Baker, Polk and quarterback Drake Maye, New England is hoping the draft yielded the nucleus of its aerial attack for a long time to come.