Patriots receiver A.J. Brown misses practice again before Miami trip
The Pro Bowl wide receiver is dealing with ankle and knee issues as the team prepares for its Week 8 game against the Dolphins.
By Adrian Kovalenko ·
A.J. Brown did not appear at the start of Friday's practice at the Patriots training facility. This marks the second consecutive session he has missed while managing injuries to his ankle and knee. Running back TreVeyon Henderson also stayed out, citing illness.
Head coach Mike Vrabel listed both players as questionable for the upcoming game in Miami. The Patriots depart for Florida around 3 p.m. on Saturday. If Brown does not join the team on the plane, the organization will declare him out for the contest.
Brown returned to action two weeks ago after suffering a high ankle sprain. On Wednesday, Vrabel noted that Brown was limited by a knee injury and failed to finish the session. The receiver has not practiced since that day. ESPN reported that the knee issue flared up during Wednesday's drills.
The Patriots acquired Brown from the Eagles in June. The trade involved a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection. The team was aware of a degenerative condition in Brown's knee at the time of the deal.
Vrabel addressed questions about whether the staff rushed Brown's return from his ankle injury. He described the ankle and knee problems as separate issues. The coach emphasized the team's focus on securing a divisional win on the road.
Brown played 76.5 percent of offensive snaps in Week 6 and 90.7 percent in Week 7. If he sits Sunday, the Patriots will rely on Efton Chism, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams at wide receiver. Romeo Doubs and Mack Hollins remain on injured reserve.
Four receivers currently occupy practice squad spots: Ryan Miller, Chandler Brayboy, Cameron Dorner, and Kyle Dixon. Wide receivers coach Todd Downing praised the group's work ethic on Thursday. He noted that the players are studying the habits of veterans like Chism and Hollins.
Downing highlighted Miller's experience, noting that the former Dolphin has played 444 career offensive snaps. He said Miller is quickly adapting to the team's terminology. Downing also commended Brayboy for playing fast and improving his decision-making under the guidance of offensive assistant Riley Larkin.
Source: Boston Herald
