Patriots Face Weeks Without A.J. Brown After Ankle Injury

September 11, 2026 - 05:58

New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown could be sidelined for four to six weeks because of a right ankle injury, according to a Friday evening report from Bleacher Report's Jordan Schultz. The timeline suggests the team may also place him on injured reserve for a short stint, which would keep him out for at least four games.

Brown suffered the injury in Wednesday's season opener against the Seattle Seahawks. The setback came early in the game, removing one of the Patriots' top offensive threats from the field before the contest settled into a rhythm. His absence leaves the receiving corps thinner and forces the coaching staff to adjust its game plan for the coming weeks.

If the four to six week estimate holds, Brown would miss a meaningful stretch of the schedule. A short-term IR placement would allow the Patriots to free up a roster spot while he recovers, though it would guarantee he sits out multiple games. The team has not confirmed the severity of the injury or a formal timeline.

Brown's health is a major factor in New England's offensive outlook. Losing him for an extended period puts added pressure on the remaining wide receivers and tight ends to produce. The Patriots will likely provide an update after further evaluation.