Feb 5, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel talks to media members at the Santa Clara Marriott. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Mike Vrabel Offers Hope on A.J. Brown's Return as Patriots Face Two More Injury Concerns 1
The New England Patriots might have a chance to bring back A.J. Brown for their upcoming game against the New York Jets, since their head coach, Mike Vrabel, now has two new players who have been injured and need MRIs. These two players include running back TreVeyon Henderson and left tackle Will Campbell.
Vrabel shared some positive news about Brown, whose status has been in question since he was injured during the season opener with a high ankle sprain. Vrabel stated that there is a possibility Brown will return to the field.
Mike Vrabel Gives A.J. Brown a Chance to Return for New England Patriots
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel throws a football during warmups prior to a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Brown is eligible to come off injured reserve, and Vrabel’s latest comments suggest the three-time All-Pro is getting close to playing again. Speaking on October 12, the coach stopped short of confirming that Brown would be available against the Jets.
Patriots HC Mike Vrabel tells reporters there’s “a chance” that A.J. Brown (ankle) returns off IR to play Sunday vs. Jets. This week or not, Brown is close.
RB TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) & LT Will Campbell (knee) have MRIs to determine if/how much time they’ll miss with injuries
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) October 12, 2026
Brown has played only a little over half of the Patriots’ season opener before the ankle injury forced him out. Initial expectations pointed toward a recovery lasting around six weeks; however, recent signs have been more positive. He was seen walking around the Patriots’ locker room last week without an obvious limp.
That does not guarantee he is ready for game action. A return to practice and the ability to handle the demands of a full game are different things, particularly with a high ankle sprain.
The Patriots have managed without him so far. Drake Maye threw for 374 yards and four touchdowns against the Las Vegas Raiders, with the Patriots’ receivers finding ways to contribute despite injuries elsewhere in the group. Brown would give Maye another major target; however, the team has reason to be careful with his return.
The bigger question now is whether the Patriots can get through the week without losing more important pieces. Henderson and Campbell are both scheduled for MRIs to determine the severity of their injuries and whether either will miss time. Campbell’s situation is especially serious because he protects Maye’s blind side. When the rookie left tackle exited against the Raiders, Caleb Lomu stepped in and earned praise from Vrabel for settling into the role.
“I didn’t think it was too big for him. He was able to settle down. We didn’t really notice him a lot so I think that’s probably a good thing,” (via HEAVY)
That performance gives the Patriots an option if Campbell cannot play Sunday, although the MRI results will help determine how much the coaching staff needs to adjust its plans.
Henderson’s status could also affect the backfield rotation heading into the Jets matchup. For now, there is no confirmed timetable for either player. The Patriots have won two straight games and will host the Jets on Sunday with a chance to keep building momentum.