Mike Vrabel: We’re very confident in where A.J. Brown is at physically - NBC Sports

What the report says

NBCSports.com reported that New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel again pushed back on concerns about wide receiver A.J. Brown’s knee during a Monday press conference. According to the Pro Football Talk item by Myles Simmons, Vrabel said the team feels assured about Brown’s physical condition and indicated Brown has handled the work asked of him since joining New England.

The report noted that Brown has dealt with knee issues previously and that those issues were reportedly part of why the Los Angeles Rams did not pursue a trade for him. NBCSports.com said Brown and Patriots officials have downplayed the matter in recent months, with Vrabel’s latest comments continuing that stance as training camp attention turns to player availability and early integration with the team.

Vrabel also described Brown as having made a strong early impression both physically and mentally, while acknowledging that the receiver will not necessarily participate in every activity. The coach’s remarks suggest the Patriots may manage Brown’s workload while maintaining confidence in his readiness.

Brown, 29, remains a significant offensive addition for New England. NBCSports.com reported that he played 13 games for Philadelphia in 2024 and 15 games in 2025, when he recorded 78 receptions for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns. His health is important because the Patriots are counting on him to be a major part of their passing game, and any uncertainty around a top receiver can affect roster planning and expectations entering the season.