Story perspectives

AJ Brown Practices Again, Could Play Jets Oct. 18

By Drooid · Oct 15, 2026, 10:25 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

The New England Patriots opened AJ Brown’s practice window on Oct. 14, allowing him to practice.
Brown suffered a high-ankle sprain in the Week 1 loss to Seattle on Sept. 9, missing four games.
Coach Mike Vrabel said there is a chance Brown will play against the Jets on Oct. 18.
Brown told reporters his Sunday status is still up in the air, but he feels good.

History

Historical Context

In 2001, the New England Patriots elevated Tom Brady after Drew Bledsoe’s season-ending shoulder injury, and the team captured Super Bowl XXXVI in February. Coach Bill Belichick trusted the rookie, who threw 20 touchdown passes in the regular season, while the Patriots finished 11-5. Similarly, AJ Brown’s high-ankle sprain on September 9 sidelined him for four games, and Patriots coach Mike Vrabel hopes his October 18 return will energize the offense. If Brown mirrors Brady’s impact, the Patriots could secure a playoff berth, echoing the 2001 turnaround that reshaped the franchise’s dynasty.

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Story summary

The New England Patriots opened AJ Brown’s practice window on Oct. 14, allowing him to practice.
Brown suffered a high-ankle sprain in the Week 1 loss to Seattle on Sept. 9, missing four games.
Coach Mike Vrabel said there is a chance Brown will play against the Jets on Oct. 18.
Brown told reporters his Sunday status is still up in the air, but he feels good.

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