NFL

Patriots receiver A.J. Brown uncertain for Jets clash as injury recovery continues

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 16, 2026, 00:58 IST

New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown remains questionable for Sunday's game against the New York Jets after returning to practice following a high-ankle sprain sustained in the season opener.

Patriots receiver A.J. Brown uncertain for Jets clash as injury recovery continues

New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown has provided an update on his availability for this Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets, describing his status as currently uncertain. Brown returned to the practice field this week for the first time since sustaining a right high-ankle sprain during the team's season-opening loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

While the wideout expressed optimism about his progress, he emphasized that the final call regarding his participation will rest with head coach Mike Vrabel. The decision-making process is focused on balancing immediate needs with the long-term health of the player, rather than rushing a return for a single contest.

Managing the recovery process

Brown participated in practice on a limited basis this past Wednesday. He noted that his primary objective is to incrementally increase his workload each day as he tests the stability of his ankle. Following a session on Thursday that involved wearing full shoulder pads—a move designed to simulate more physical game-day conditions—Brown is monitoring how his body responds to the increased intensity.

Reflecting on his time away from the main group, Brown admitted that individual rehabilitation work on the side was difficult. He expressed relief at being back on the grass with his teammates, stating that he is taking his recovery one step at a time to ensure he is fully prepared for a return to competitive action.

Looking ahead to the schedule

The Patriots, who currently hold a 3-2 record, face a challenging stretch in their schedule. Following the upcoming game against the 2-3 Jets, the team faces a short turnaround before traveling to face the Chicago Bears on Thursday, October 22. This compressed schedule may influence the coaching staff's caution regarding player availability.

During his recovery, Brown also shared a personal moment regarding the injury, which occurred in the third quarter of the season opener. He recalled that while lying on the field in Seattle, his immediate concern was missing his wife Kelsey’s nursing school graduation in New Jersey that same weekend. Brown expressed gratitude toward coach Mike Vrabel, who excused him from mandatory rehabilitation sessions to allow him to attend the ceremony.