Patriots get massive A.J. Brown injury update

The New England Patriots were excited to snag superstar wide receiver A.J. Brown during the offseason, but now, he's sitting on the sidelines. Brown, of course, was injured during the team's season opener against the Seattle Seahawks, which they lost, 13-10.

Brown went down with a high-ankle sprain in his right leg during the matchup. He left the game and didn't return.

Now, insider Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network is sharing an update on his status, and it's not good.

A.J. Brown expected to miss at least four games

According to Rapoport, Brown is expected to miss at least four games because of the high ankle sprain. He shared the news during a broadcast shared on X on Thursday night.

Of course, four weeks is significant, because it means he could be a candidate for the Reserve/Injured list.

With Brown sidelined, expect to see lots of wide receiver Romeo Doubs, as well as DeMario Douglas and Hunter Henry on the field. Mack Hollins will also see more time.

When asked about Brown's status in a postgame presser, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel didn't offer up any information. "I don't have any update yet. Wasn't able to return, obviously," he said at the time, per the team's official transcript.

After the game, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye was asked about Hollins stepping up for the injured Brown.

"That's what he does. That's Mack Hollins' career, stepping up and being in the right spot and knowing what to do and making big plays," Maye said. "Fourth down (there) was a big play he made."

He added, "I know these guys are eager to get touches and eager to help this team win. I've got to do my part and I'm the leader and I need to bounce back and get ready to go for next week."

This is obviously a big development for the Patriots and something to keep watching.