The New England Patriots have found ways to win without A.J. Brown, and many thought his return would immediately have a positive impact on an already improving offense.
It hasn’t been quite that simple, though.
Maye Is Ready to Build With Brown
After experiencing a high right ankle sprain during the Pats season opener against Seattle, Brown returned to the lineup on October 14, opening his 21-day window to be activated from injured reserve.
What separates Brown from New England’s younger receivers is his ability to make contested catches while creating separation against physical coverage.
His strength, size, and experience allow quarterback Drake Maye to throw to a consistent outside target, especially in one-on-one matchups. Brown’s presence on the field also forces the defense’s attention onto him, opening up opportunities for other receivers to make plays.
For Maye, having his elite receiver allows him to navigate a smoother offensive rhythm.
“It’s always a warm welcome in the huddle to have him back in there,” Maye told reporters. “So, looking forward to seeing him progress, and it’s always great seeing him back out there.”
Brown came to New England following a massive offseason trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, adding a proven threat to the Patriots’ offense. However, his debut in Week 1 was cut short by the ankle sprain. He finished with just three catches for 26 yards.
New England’s Offense Found Its Identity Without Brown
Without Brown’s talent on the field, Maye was left to rely on other receiving options, forcing the offense to develop quickly.
In the Pats’ win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Maye threw for 374 yards and four touchdowns, all while adding another score on the ground. New England proved its development with nine different players recording pass catches.
Kyle Williams emerged as one of Maye’s key targets in their matchup with Las Vegas, recording three receptions for 91 yards and a touchdown. This strong performance highlighted Williams’ growing chemistry with Maye and New England’s other young receivers, showing the offense can create explosive plays without relying on one star.
Brown Gives Maye a Weapon Nobody Else on the Roster Can Replicate
When Brown was close to returning to the field, many wondered if the Patriots’ offense could go from good to great. Maye certainly thought so.
“I think it definitely opens up other parts of the field and other parts of the game for guys,” Maye said, according to Pats Pulpit.
Brown’s presence could rattle defenses, causing them to shift their coverage and ultimately creating more opportunities for other receivers who proved themselves during his absence.
However, Maye has been clear that Brown’s return does not shift his mindset.
“I’m trying to get it to the first guy open,” Maye said, according to the Boston Herald.
That focused mindset could be what sets the Patriots’ offense apart from competitors. Rather than having one trusted target, Maye has built connections across the roster.
Ultimately, Brown’s return in theory should add another explosive option without disrupting the chemistry Maye built during his absence.
Brown’s First Two Games Back Show the Rust Is Real
Brown made his return in Week 6 against the Jets, and it wasn’t pretty.
He caught just three of 10 targets for 27 yards in New England’s 26-19 win, also dropping a career-high three passes. The rust was visible, and it’s clear that the chemistry with Maye needs time. Still, the Patriots won, and Brown’s 10 targets showed that Maye isn’t afraid to look his way.
On Thursday Night Football against the Bears, Brown recorded three receptions for 48 yards on six targets. Maye threw for 321 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a score.
Even with the loss, New England continued to distribute the ball around. Rhamondre Stevenson led the team in receiving yards with 93, followed by Hunter Henry with 71. At the very least, the Patriots’ other pass-catchers have continued to step up.
Brown hasn’t looked like himself yet, but two games back from a four-week absence is too early to worry. The Patriots already proved they can move the ball without him.
Once the rust shakes off and the chemistry with Maye catches up, this offense adds another gear.
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