Vrabel Addresses A.J. Brown Injury Concerns After Dolphins Victory

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel declined to declare wide receiver A.J. Brown ready for practice on Wednesday, citing the need to monitor the player's recovery. Brown missed Sunday's 24-19 victory over the Dolphins due to a knee injury, marking his second absence from the lineup in two weeks.

Brown initially suffered a high ankle sprain in Week 1. He returned to the field in Week 6, playing more than 100 snaps in wins against the Jets and losses to the Bears. A knee issue appeared on the injury report the following Wednesday, limiting his practice. He was listed as a non-participant Thursday and Friday before the team ruled him out Saturday afternoon as they traveled to Miami.

On Monday morning, Vrabel discussed the situation on WEEI’s “The Greg Hill Show” and in a subsequent press conference. He noted that Brown did not travel with the team for the game. “We’ll see where A.J.’s availability is this week,” Vrabel stated. He added that he looks forward to reviewing the player's progress in treatment. When asked directly about Wednesday's practice, Vrabel replied, “we’ll see.”

The Patriots compensated for Brown's absence with strong performances from other receivers. DeMario Douglas, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism combined for nine receptions on nine targets. They gained 156 yards and scored two touchdowns. Tight end Hunter Henry also exited the game with a foot injury.

The Patriots currently have two wide receivers on injured reserve: Mack Hollins with a calf issue and Romeo Doubs with a shoulder injury. Hollins is eligible for activation this week. The team will evaluate Brown's physical status before finalizing his role in this week's training sessions.