Brown has not played since sustaining a high right ankle sprain in the season-opening loss to the Seattle Seahawks. He returned to practice this week after spending four games on injured reserve. The Patriots designated Brown to return from IR on Wednesday, initiating a 21-day practice window. He was limited in Wednesday and Thursday sessions, marking his first on-field work since the injury. Vrabel has stressed a patient approach, noting that they would ease him back into practice and determine readiness within the 21-day window.
Friday’s update sets Saturday as the pivotal checkpoint for a potential return against the Jets. There is no obligation to activate Brown during the 21-day window, but a Sunday availability would require a roster move before Saturday’s deadline. Brown described his status as still uncertain, emphasizing that the decision will consider his long-term health, and noting the short turnaround could factor into the choice if he returns this weekend.
If Brown does return, he would provide a significant boost to quarterback Drake Maye and the offense. The Patriots acquired Brown in the offseason from the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-rounder, aligning him as Maye’s top receiving option after Brown posted multiple 1,000-yard seasons in Philadelphia. Brown’s debut for New England came in Seattle, where he recorded three receptions on four targets for 26 yards before injuring his ankle in the third quarter. He also drew a 34-yard pass interference penalty that helped set up the Patriots’ lone touchdown in a 13-10 loss.
New England has progressed to 3-2 without Brown and will host the Jets before traveling to face the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football, creating a tight turnaround scenario if he returns this weekend. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said Brown’s practice presence has provided a boost to the offense, and he’s prepared game plans for both outcomes against the Jets as the team awaits the decision on Brown’s health and readiness.
