Brown, who has been sidelined since Week 1 with a high-ankle sprain suffered in the loss to the Seattle Seahawks, is nearing a return. Reports indicate that the Patriots are likely to activate Brown off the injured reserve before Sunday’s matchup against the New York Jets. His absence has been a notable factor for New England’s passing game, and his return would provide an extra playmaker for Maye and the offense.
Brown was acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles in a trade for a 2028 first-round pick, a move that was designed to bolster the wide receiver depth and add a proven reliable target for the young quarterback. With Brown back in the lineup, the Patriots’ passing corps would gain an important veteran presence and a playmaking threat who can stretch defenses and create separation.
As the team monitors Brown’s status, updates are expected to roll in ahead of kickoff. Sunday morning inactives announcements around 11:30 a.m. ET will clarify whether Brown is active and ready to contribute against New York, or if the team will proceed without him for one more week.
The combination of Maye’s development and a potential return from Brown could sharpen New England’s offensive outlook as they navigate the rest of the season and push to contend within the AFC East.
