Patriots Facing Unfortunate Development After AJ Brown News

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Patriots Facing Unfortunate Development After AJ Brown News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Trant | Last updated Oct 30, 2026 2:15 PM ET

After a poor start to the season, the New England Patriots have righted the ship and now sit with a 4-3 record. Week 7’s loss to the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football snapped a three-game winning streak, but the Patriots will look to regain momentum in Week 8 against the Miami Dolphins.

After some shaky performances to open the year, the New England offense has significantly improved over recent weeks. A major focus of the offseason was improving the weapons around quarterback Drake Maye. New England added several veteran options, including wide receivers A.J. Brown and Romeo Doubs, in an effort to give its young quarterback a deeper group of playmakers.

Oct 18, 2026; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown (1) misses a catch in the end zone in the first half against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn ImagesDavid Butler II-Imagn Images

While the passing offense has remained steady, averaging the ninth-most passing yards per game, injuries have prevented the Patriots from having their new-look receiver room available at full strength.

Brown has continued to deal with injuries since suffering a high ankle sprain earlier in the season, while Doubs is currently on injured reserve with a shoulder injury.

Brown, a three-time Pro Bowler, missed practice on Thursday and Friday while dealing with a knee issue in addition to the lingering ankle injury that has bothered him since Week 1.

Head coach Mike Vrabel was asked if there is any long-term concern regarding Brown’s status. According to Mark Daniels of MassLive, Vrabel said, “I’m focused on today. I’m focused on getting the team to Miami and win.”

Any longterm concern with A.J. Brown?

Mike Vrabel: “I’m focused on today. I’m focused on getting the team to Miami and win.”
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) October 30, 2026

The response gave little clarity on Brown’s recovery, and he is currently listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Dolphins. New England acquired Brown and Doubs to carry a heavy receiving load. However, the two have appeared in just two games together this season.

Doubs is eligible to return from injured reserve following the Patriots’ Week 11 bye. With Brown’s status up in the air, the Patriots may have to lean more heavily on the rest of the receiving corps than they originally envisioned.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: