The New England Patriots are preparing to move forward without wide receiver A.J. Brown for the foreseeable future.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Brown is expected to be out for at least the next four weeks after he sustained a high-ankle sprain in the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks.
Brown exited the game during the third quarter and was unable to return, finishing his Patriots debut with three catches for 26 yards. The injury delivers a major blow to New England’s offense, which traded for the star wide receiver in the offseason to serve as its primary target.
The Patriots have the option to place Brown on injured reserve, which will open a roster spot but keep him sidelined for a minimum of four games. In his absence, Romeo
Doubs, Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams and DeMario Douglas will be looked upon to step up in New England’s passing attack.
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye will now need to rely on a reshaped receiving group as New England prepares for its Week 2 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Brown’s timetable beyond the initial four-week window will depend on his recovery and medical progress.
Brown will be expected to return as early as the Patriots’ Week 6 matchup against the New York Jets.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Timetable on Patriots WR A.J. Brown's ankle injury revealed
