New England fell to 5-4 after a blowout loss to the Green Bay Packers and could benefit from Brown’s return as a target for quarterback Drake Maye. Brown has recorded nine catches for 101 yards on 20 targets across three games this season. Though he has dropped several passes in limited action, he remains a downfield threat against a Detroit defense that has allowed the NFL’s third-most passing yards this season.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel said the team is eager to get several players back as it tries to build momentum for a playoff push. He noted that no single player makes the difference, but added that having more players available can help the team’s pieces come together.
The Lions also received encouraging news about their top receiver, Amon-Ra St. Brown. He was limited in practice with a rib issue and listed as questionable, but was expected to play. St. Brown has a history of playing through injuries, including a high ankle sprain during a Thursday night game in Baltimore. He also has family in Germany and is eager to play there.
