A.J. Brown Participates in First Patriots Practice, Takes Four Snaps

J. Brown participated in his first practice with the New England Patriots on June 7, 2026. He passed his physical the day after the trade and took part in positional drills before logging four snaps in 11-on-11 work.

Brown made a one-handed catch on a short hitch route from quarterback Drake Maye. Maye completed 17 of 22 pass attempts in team drills and threw 12 straight completions during the session. “Trying to adjust, walking up the hill with my uniform on, I was like, ‘man, this is real,’” Brown said.

The 26-year-old grew up a Patriots fan. Head coach Mike Vrabel said the trade was intended to improve the team in every possible way and give the offense multiple weapons to build on what was done last year. Brown is expected to serve as a primary read on third downs and in red-zone situations.

Romeo Doubs and the slot group remain important parts of the offense. Wide receiver Kayshon Boutte trained separately amid trade rumors. Mandatory minicamp for the Patriots is scheduled next. Brown now has a short window to develop timing with Maye before training camp.