NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports the “preliminary diagnosis” for A.J. Brown is a high-ankle sprain.

10 September 2026

Garafolo added, “MRI today after X-rays were negative.” That’s a good sign, but there is currently no timeline for Brown’s return. It will ultimately be a multi-week injury that could linger well into the season. Demario Douglas led the Pats with seven targets last week, though his looks are generally low-value check-downs. Mack Hollins and Romeo Doubs will serve as the team’s primary outside receivers until Brown is healthy. Hollins led the Pats in receiving yards last night, though at a modest 51 yards. Hollins is worth adding in deeper leagues, but it’s hard to imagine him putting up anything more than WR4 numbers. Doubs should improve in Week 2 after failing to catch any of his three targets versus the Seahawks. He will get another shot at WR3 numbers against Pittsburgh next week.