The New England Patriots have opened A.J. Brown’s 21-day practice window, marking his return to the field after a high ankle sprain, with coach Mike Vrabel citing his routine was really good
during rehab.
The New England Patriots have officially opened A.J. Brown’s 21-day practice window, signaling the star wide receiver’s return to the field after missing four games with a high ankle sprain. Brown, who first suited up for practice on Wednesday, was seen with a wrapped right ankle but showed progress in his rehab, per coach Mike Vrabel, who praised his routine was really good
during his time on injured reserve.
A.J. Brown … Christian Gonzalez — a significant day of returns at Patriots practice. pic.twitter.com/rJf16W00Cu
Brown’s Return and the Patriots’ Offense
Brown’s return has immediate implications for the Patriots’ offense, which has relied on Romeo Doubs and Kyle Williams in his absence. The 29-year-old receiver, acquired in a June trade from the Eagles, has yet to be activated but is now within 21 days of rejoining the 53-man roster. Vrabel emphasized Brown’s preparation, noting his ability to be around guys in the meetings and then also focus on his rehab.
Quarterback Drake Maye has shown improved deep-ball efficiency in his last two games, with the potential for further enhancement upon Brown’s return. In his last two games, Maye completed 61% of his passes for 643 yards and seven touchdowns, showing improvement from earlier in the season. There’s not many like him that are around here in this league,
Maye said of Brown, who has averaged 15.3 yards per reception over his career.
Vrabel’s Caution and the Shortened Week Ahead
Vrabel remains cautious about Brown’s readiness, stating, I don’t know. He hasn’t been out there,
as the team navigates a short week before their matchup against the Chicago Bears. The Patriots face a tricky scheduling window, with Brown’s activation potentially delayed to avoid overtaxing his recovery. We obviously know we have a shortened week next week,
Vrabel said, adding, Can’t impact our decisions to try and do everything we can to win this week.
The coach also addressed the return of cornerback Christian Gonzalez, who practiced for the first time since a shoulder injury. Left tackle Will Campbell, who injured his knee against the Raiders, is building up throughout the week,
according to the Boston Herald.
The Path to Activation and Fan Expectations
Brown’s activation hinges on his performance in practice and the team’s evaluation of his health. The Patriots have a 77% chance of reaching the postseason, per The Athletic’s simulator, but his return could solidify their offensive firepower. Safety Kevin Byard called Brown’s return a ‘huge boost,’ noting the energy his presence brings to the sideline.
CB Christian Gonzalez says he’s ready to go for Sunday. 🎬 By Marc D. Cappello pic.twitter.com/3t0qav88x5
More on A.J. Brown
Patriots are missing a handful of players at practice: Will Campbell, Morgan Moses, TreVeyon Henderson, Carlton Davis, Marcus Jones, Channing Canada, Karon Prunty.We’ll see what the injury report says pic.twitter.com/aVhiZljZHI
A.J. Brown is all smiles in his return to #Patriots practice. pic.twitter.com/38zJBDNftD
Patriots LT Will Campbell told me he's going to "do some stuff today."Says he's feeling good."Just building up throughout the week. See what happens." https://t.co/290akY37RP
What kind of boost does A.J. Brown’s return give the #Patriots?Kevin Byard: “Huge boost.” pic.twitter.com/ERQxOmxXj2
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel says WR AJ Brown has been designated for return from injured reserve and will practice today.
The Patriots are opening WR A.J. Brown’s practice window today. Brown suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 1 and went on IR. Everything is trending positively for him to return soon and this is the next step. pic.twitter.com/vPCv1OHLVF
A.J. Brown hurt his ankle 5 weeks ago today. Initial reporting suggested it would be a 6+ week injury. The #Patriots also have a quick turn-around next week playing Thursday night at Chicago. But if Brown proved he’s good to go Sunday … 🤷♂️ pic.twitter.com/bvnCuhpSNH