Patriots fourth-round rookie wideout Javon Baker missed several spring practices with a thumb fracture, per sources, but should be back soon.

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The team posted a photo of Baker catching passes Monday, indicating he has been at least partially cleared for practice participation. Baker was one of several rookies who reported to team headquarters last Friday. Veterans will report on Tuesday, just before the Patriots open their first training camp practice Wednesday at 11 a.m.

Baker is expected to practice in some capacity over the coming days and weeks, after working on a separate field for most of the spring due to his injury. The Patriots are hoping the 6-foot-1, 202-pound rookie can bring some big-play explosion to their passing game. Baker averaged 21.9 yards per catch last season at Central Florida, where he recorded 1,139 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.

Baker transferred to UCF in 2022, when he finished with 56 catches fro 796 yards and five touchdowns. He arrived after spending his first two seasons as a reserve at Alabama.

Baker will enter a crowded position battle this summer with fellow rookie Ja’Lynn Polk, projected slot starter DeMario Douglas and veterans K.J. Osborn, Kendrick Bourne, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Tyquan Thornton, Kayshon Boutte and Jalen Reagor, among others.

On Monday, the Patriots also announced the release of rookie linebacker Jontrey Hunter. Hunter was placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list on Friday.