A.J. Brown’s 2026 regular-season outlook centers on his high-ankle sprain suffered in the Patriots’ Week 1 loss to the Seahawks. The three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, acquired via trade from the Eagles during the offseason to pair with quarterback Drake Maye, exited after three receptions for 26 yards when a defender landed on his right ankle. X-rays were negative, but an MRI is pending and preliminary reports project a multi-week absence that could extend to injured reserve. This early injury reduces his opportunities in an offense that had positioned him as the primary outside target alongside Romeo Doubs and others. Recovery timelines for high-ankle sprains typically range from two to six weeks or longer, directly pressuring season-long reception totals amid New England’s adjusted depth chart and upcoming schedule.