New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown sustained an apparent injury during the third quarter of the team's Week 1 season opener against the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The injury occurred as Brown attempted to make a catch at Lumen Field.
Medical personnel attended to Brown on the field before he proceeded to the sideline without assistance. He later entered the team's blue medical tent and subsequently headed to the locker room while wearing only one cleat. The team later ruled him out for the remainder of the game due to what was described as an ankle injury.
Brown concluded his abbreviated debut with three receptions for 26 yards. He also drew a 34-yard pass interference penalty that contributed to the Patriots' first touchdown of the game. New England held a 10-0 lead at the time of Brown's departure.
In addition to Brown's injury, Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold also left the game in the first quarter and was later ruled out. Drew Lock replaced Darnold under center for Seattle. The game marked a Super Bowl LX rematch, with Seattle having defeated New England 29-10 in February to secure their second Vince Lombardi Trophy.