In a market as large and hostile as Philadelphia is, it's easy for players of the cities professional sports teams to crumble under the pressure that comes from the expectations of the town.
It's why the mental health of modern athletes has actually become something that has been pushed by each league and team.
None more so than with the Eagles.
Whether it was their right tackle battling anxiety during the early parts of his career and learning to speak out about it, or their All-Pro wide receiver reading books on the sideline to center himself during key moments of the ballgame, the Eagles have become a team that has pushed the importance of mental health compared to other rosters.
In the case of A.J. Brown, his popular run through "Inner Excellence" sent the self-help book into one of the most sold books in the world. Now, the veteran receiver is looking to spread the word about other books he's expecting to read this year.
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"Here are some books that I've read last year and the beginning of this year as well. I've read the majority of these books and I still have some work to do, but I encourage you to find a book that may catch your interest," Brown said. "Get a hard copy or even an audiobook if that's easier and try to find something that challenges you so you can become a better version of yourself."
Whatever players use to keep themselves in the moment and grounded is the only thing that should matter. The Eagles understand this well.
It's why Brown has been ready on the sideline for years now.
And why he'll continue to do so moving forward.
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This story was originally published March 16, 2025 at 5:06 PM.