Patriots Likely to Activate WR A.J. Brown for Sunday’s Game Against Jets

Wide receiver A.J. Brown is expected to be activated Saturday following a four-game absence due to a right high ankle sprain.

New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown is likely to be activated Saturday for Sunday's home game against the New York Jets, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Brown has missed the previous four contests after sustaining a right high ankle sprain during the third quarter of the September 9 season opener. The 3-2 Patriots currently have an open spot on the 53-man roster to accommodate his return to the lineup.

Brown returned to practice on Wednesday and remained a limited participant throughout the week, per the team's official injury report. While providing a target for quarterback Drake Maye, the receiver is expected to be eased back into game action rather than immediately assuming his full workload. Head coach Mike Vrabel will make the final determination on his status, with Brown noting that the decision focuses on his availability for the long haul.

New England’s receiving corps currently includes Romeo Doubs, Pop Douglas, Efton Chism III, and Kyle Williams. Following the matchup against the 2-3 Jets, the Patriots are scheduled for a short week before visiting the Chicago Bears on Thursday.