A.J. Brown, acquired by the New England Patriots via trade from the Philadelphia Eagles in June 2026, opened the season as Drake Maye's primary target but suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 1 against the Seahawks. He recorded three receptions for 26 yards before exiting and was placed on injured reserve, with reports indicating a minimum four-game absence and possible return no earlier than Week 6. The 29-year-old wide receiver enters the year after four straight seasons with at least seven receiving touchdowns, including a 2025 campaign of 78 catches for 1,003 yards and seven scores in 15 games. His absence reduces early-season targets and red-zone opportunities in an offense shifting toward greater passing volume, while recovery timelines for high-ankle sprains can extend beyond the minimum and affect usage upon return.