The New England Patriots face the Detroit Lions in Germany in Week 10, looking to rebound from a heavy loss to the Green Bay Packers. The team will also have to manage a growing injury list. Three players were ruled out before the Patriots traveled, but wide receiver A.J. Brown was not among them, leaving open the possibility that he could return after missing the past two games with a knee injury.
Brown was limited in practice on both Wednesday and Thursday. Thursday’s session was a light walkthrough, so his participation offers only a limited indication of his readiness. Running back Rhamondre Stevenson was also listed as limited, despite reportedly sustaining a knee injury expected to keep him out for multiple weeks.
New England acquired Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles in an offseason trade that cost the team a 2028 first-round pick. His first season with the Patriots has been difficult: injuries to his ankle and knee have kept him off the field, and he has recorded nine catches for 101 yards across roughly two and a half games. He has also been charged with three drops.
The Patriots could use Brown’s ability to make plays downfield and ease the pressure on quarterback Drake Maye. Mack Hollins returned from injured reserve in Week 9, but Brown’s availability would give New England another potential difference-maker on offense. Friday’s practice should provide a clearer indication of whether he can play against Detroit on Sunday.
