The Patriots’ season opener already came with a pile of problems, and the biggest one now has a timetable attached to it. A.J. Brown is headed to injured reserve because of the high ankle sprain he suffered, a move that will keep him out for at least four games.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the transaction, writing: "Sources: Patriots are placing wide receiver AJ Brown on injured reserve due to his high ankle sprain, sidelining him for a minimum of four games," Schefter reports.
That IR designation locks Brown out for Weeks 2, 3, 4, and 5. The earliest he can return is Week 6, when the Patriots face the New York Jets on October 18.
The injury is not being described as season-ending, but it is clearly more than a minor setback. Brown, the team’s big offseason addition, is now set to miss the early part of the 2026 season while New England sorts out life without its top target.
For now, the Patriots will have to lean on Mack Hollins, Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams.
The team’s rough start already included a 13-10 loss to the Seattle Seahawks’ backup quarterback and three interceptions from Drake Maye. Brown’s absence only makes the opening stretch tougher, with a Week 11 bye still on the schedule after his earliest possible return date.
Still, barring any setbacks in his recovery, Brown should be back well before that bye. The immediate reality is simpler: New England will be without him for at least a month.
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