A.J. Brown enters the 2026 regular season with the New England Patriots after an offseason trade from Philadelphia, positioning him as the clear No. 1 wide receiver for quarterback Drake Maye in an offense expected to feature increased passing volume. His recent high-ankle sprain in Week 1 has led to placement on injured reserve, with an anticipated absence of roughly six weeks that will reduce his games played and early-season targets. Historically consistent with 7 receiving touchdowns in each of the prior three campaigns despite varying target shares, Brown’s total will hinge on recovery speed, red-zone usage upon return, and how quickly the Patriots’ passing attack integrates him as the focal point. Lingering effects from the injury or a condensed schedule could cap his output below recent norms.