As Drake Maye took the Patriots’ practice field Wednesday, he saw a familiar, but new face: wide receiver A.J. Brown.
“It’s always a warm welcome in the huddle to have him back in there,” Maye said. “So, looking forward to seeing him progress, and it’s always great seeing him back out there. I think you would have to ask him how he felt, but I think it’s good to see him back out there, that’s for sure.”
Brown returned to practice on Wednesday for the first time since being placed on injured reserve
following Week 1. The Patriots now have a three-week window to activate him to the roster.
When he returns, Brown will provide a significant boost to New England’s offense.
“You know what he can add. He’s been a player in this league,” Maye said. “It’s not like we haven’t seen him as a player in this league, and there aren’t many like him that roam around in this league. So, I’ll just try to do my part to give him some chances and keep on spreading the ball around for guys that are open.
“We’ve had a lot of guys step up. So, I’m looking forward to keeping that rolling and adding another piece whenever he feels like he’s ready to get out there.”
In Brown’s absence, free-agent addition Romeo Doubs has taken on a larger role while young players like Efton Chism III and Kyle Williams have made the most of their opportunities.
Maye believes Brown’s return could create even more opportunities for the rest of the receiving corps.
“I think it definitely opens up other parts of the field and other parts of the game for guys,” Maye said. “I think you see it in the NBA; it’s probably the closest thing that I can think of. When they start doubling the best player once they get past half court, then they’re just leaving a corner 3 open or leaving a guy open for a dunk.”
The Patriots’ offense got off to a slow start after losing Brown in the season opener. However, the unit has found its stride over the past two weeks, with Maye throwing seven touchdown passes and adding another score on the ground.
Although Brown has been unable to contribute on the field during that stretch, the veteran, whose locker stall is directly next to Maye’s, has remained engaged off the field.
“He’s just a pro. I think you will see by the way he carries himself and how he cares about players. I’ve been impressed,” Maye said. “He’s not been at the games, but you can see how closely he’s watching the games and little things he picks up on. You can tell he’s really watching and that he cares. He’s just a great teammate from what I have experienced here with him, and he’s looking forward to getting back.
“I know he’s just got a big smile. He’s got a contagious smile, and it’s good seeing that in the locker room. I enjoy being near it every day.”
