AJ Brown Nears Return for Patriots Ahead of Jets Matchup

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel indicated Monday that wide receiver AJ Brown has a "chance" to return for the team's upcoming AFC East divisional game against the New York Jets.

Brown has missed the last four games after suffering a high ankle sprain during the Patriots' season-opening loss to the Seattle Seahawks. He was subsequently placed on injured reserve, but is eligible to be activated.

The Patriots' offense has shown signs of improvement in recent weeks, securing wins against the Bills and Raiders, despite Brown's absence. The team initially struggled without their star receiver, who was acquired in an offseason trade.

"I hope that he’s going to help us," Vrabel said regarding Brown's potential return. "But that remains to be seen yet when he’ll be back. So, we’ll see how he does today and move from there."

Reports last week indicated that Brown was seen walking without a limp in the Patriots' locker room. Prior to his injury, Brown had recorded three catches for 26 yards in the season opener. He had previously achieved over 1,000 receiving yards in six of his first seven NFL seasons.

Brown's potential return could bolster the Patriots' receiving corps, especially with fellow receiver Mack Hollins currently on injured reserve with a calf strain, sidelining him for at least three more games. The team has yet to formally open the window for Brown's return.