A.J. Brown Misses Practice with Wisdom Teeth Removal - Timing Raises Eyebrows, But Impact Should Be Minimal
The Eagles were missing a familiar face at practice on Christmas Eve - wide receiver A.J. Brown.
But it wasn’t due to injury, illness, or even a holiday break. Brown reportedly underwent wisdom teeth removal, sidelining him temporarily as Philadelphia gears up for a critical Week 17 matchup.
Now, let’s be clear: this isn’t the kind of absence that’s expected to affect his availability for game day. But the timing? That’s what has some fans - and even a few professionals - doing a double take.
Physical therapist Jeff Mueller chimed in on social media, questioning the decision to schedule the procedure this late in the season: “Would have been more wise for AJ Brown to get his wisdom teeth removed after the season instead of Week 17 but hey…”
And it’s a fair question. Most players tend to knock out procedures like this during the offseason or early in the year when the stakes aren’t quite as high.
But wisdom teeth can be unpredictable - and painful. If they start acting up, waiting it out isn’t always an option, especially if there’s a risk of infection or swelling that could linger into the postseason.
And let’s not forget: the Eagles are still very much in the hunt. If they keep stacking wins, their season could stretch into late January or even February. That’s a long time to deal with dental pain - especially in a sport where every snap demands full focus and physicality.
So while the optics of the timing might raise a few eyebrows, it’s possible Brown and the Eagles medical staff felt this was the best window to get it done without missing meaningful game action.
As for the fan reaction? Well, Philly fans never miss a chance for a little irony.
Some have had a laugh at the idea of Brown and “wisdom” in the same sentence, especially after a season where he’s been vocal - at times publicly frustrated - about his role in the offense. But make no mistake: Brown has been a major piece of this Eagles team, and his competitive fire is part of what makes him elite.
Bottom line - unless something unexpected pops up, this dental detour shouldn’t impact his Week 17 status. The Eagles will be counting on Brown to continue being the physical, explosive playmaker he’s been all season. Wisdom teeth or not, come kickoff, expect No. 11 to be ready to roll.