Patriots receiver A.J. Brown sat out the Week 8 win against the Dolphins with a knee injury, and as Week 9 approaches, his availability is still completely up in the air. Head Coach Mike Vrabel gave a classic non-answer on Monday, stating, “We’ll see how he progresses during the week. He’s getting treatment here.” What does that even tell us, really? It sounds like more waiting and hoping, which isn’t exactly a confidence-builder for a team needing its playmakers.
Vrabel’s Silence and Brown’s Concerning Season Stats
The uncertainty around Brown’s status isn’t just a Week 9 headache. He’s only played three games all year in his first season with the Patriots, hauling in a measly nine passes for 101 yards total in those contests. That’s a brutal stat line for a player of his caliber. Before this knee issue, he was already sidelined by a high-ankle sprain, so he’s had a rough go of it since arriving. Vrabel’s update on Monday did little to clarify things, only adding, “We’ll see Wednesday what those guys that were unavailable for the game, and what they look like and whatever came up during the game.” Wednesday can’t come fast enough for fans looking for some real answers.
More Injury Woes for the Patriots Ahead of Week 9
It’s not just Brown facing question marks. Vrabel was similarly tight-lipped about tight end Hunter Henry, who is dealing with a foot injury. Every single one of these guys is crucial right now. There was a glimmer of hope, though, with Vrabel mentioning that Mack Hollins and Reggie Gilliam, currently on injured reserve, “could potentially” get back on the practice field. “Potentially” isn’t a guarantee, but at least it’s something. The Patriots are set to host the Packers on Sunday afternoon in Week 9, and they’ll need all the help they can get. Getting healthy, or at least clearer on who *is* healthy, is paramount if they want to turn things around this season.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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