A.J. Brown Could Return to Patriots Lineup Against Jets

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel has indicated there is a possibility that receiver A.J. Brown could make his return from injured reserve for the upcoming game against the New York Jets. Brown, sidelined for four games due to a high ankle sprain, is eligible to play this week. Vrabel discussed Brown's status in his weekly interview with WEEI, emphasizing a cautious approach as the team monitors Brown's progress.

Mike Vrabel Shares Latest on Patriots Injury Situation

Vrabel only got to use Brown for 31 snaps in the season opener on September 9 before Brown suffered his injury. As the Patriots look to build on recent wins over the Bills and Raiders, Vrabel said, “There is a chance,” when asked if Brown will face the Jets, adding, “Yep, there is.” The coach further explained, “I hope that he’s going to help us, but that remains to be seen yet when he’ll be back. So, we’ll see how he does [Monday] and move from there.”

In addition to Brown, other key Patriots players' availability remains uncertain. Left tackle Will Campbell (knee) and running back TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) both exited Sunday’s game due to injuries. Vrabel noted, “We’ll evaluate here and see how it looks,” in reference to Henderson. He added that both Campbell and Henderson “will do everything that they can to get back,” but their status is yet to be determined less than 24 hours after the game.

Patriots Offense Hitting Its Stride

With a season-high 45 points in their last outing, the Patriots' offense continues to show improvement. Quarterback Drake Maye was instrumental in the team's success, completing passes to nine different receivers, throwing four touchdowns, running for another, and avoiding turnovers. Vrabel, highlighting the role of wide receivers, said, “All you want from the receivers is that they’re a productive group, that they win one-on-one matchups, contested catches, create separation, give quarterbacks confidence and places to go with the football.”

Assessment of Drake Maye's Development

Maye's performance marks a sharp turnaround from early-season struggles that saw him throw six interceptions in the first three games. Addressing his improvement, Vrabel remarked that evaluating player performance involves several factors, including technique, decision-making, and coaching. “I don’t even know how to begin to answer that question, because I think it’s not fair to anybody. When you look at player performance, we have to give guys everything that they need during the week, in training camp, to be prepared situationally,” Vrabel explained.

Vrabel also emphasized the importance of observing players' actions during practice to determine what they are confident in, rather than relying solely on what they verbally express. He described the process of balancing different play calls to maximize Maye's strengths, including getting him outside the pocket and using screen passes.

Team Momentum and Cherished Memories

The Patriots are enjoying a positive run as they prepare for the possible a j brown return and continue to assess player availability in advance of the NJ Jets game. Vrabel and members of the 2001 Patriots team were honored at Gillette Stadium, echoing traditions from their first Super Bowl championship season. Reflecting on the event, Vrabel said, “I thought the whole weekend was fantastic. I thought that was really special, from the guys being over on Saturday for the walkthrough and being able to go to dinner on Saturday night, to be recognized and see these guys on Sunday morning and the fans and their families. Everybody could cherish that.”

Looking Ahead

The Patriots will continue to monitor the status of Brown, Campbell, and Henderson throughout the week, with further updates expected as practice resumes. The team aims to maintain its momentum and build on recent offensive gains as it prepares for a key divisional matchup in the NJ Jets game.

Source: boston.com.