New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown is expected to miss at least a few weeks after suffering a high ankle sprain during the team's Week 1 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. The injury occurred early in the third quarter of the Patriots' 13-10 defeat on Wednesday night, which marked the start of the 2026 NFL season.
X-rays on Brown's ankle came back negative for a fracture, according to reports. High ankle sprains typically require a minimum of two weeks for recovery before a player can return to game action, though more severe cases can extend this timeline.
In his abbreviated Patriots debut, Brown recorded three receptions for 26 yards on four targets. With Brown sidelined, Romeo Doubs and Mack Hollins are anticipated to step into starting roles in two-receiver sets. Second-year player Kyle Williams may also see an increased role in the Patriots' offense.