{
  "id": 7118252,
  "title": "Patriots Wide Receiver had Blunt Reaction to Losing AJ Brown",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/13/patriots-wide-receiver-had-blunt-reaction-to-losing-aj-brown",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-13T14:40:51.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/patriots-wide-receiver-had-blunt-reaction-to-losing-aj-brown-12436466"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A.J. Brown, a pivotal wide receiver for the New England Patriots, will be sidelined for at least four games following an ankle injury sustained during their opening season defeat to the Seattle Seahawks. The injury occurred during the team's pursuit of a future first-round draft pick, a trade that has left the franchise somewhat disappointed. However, head coach Bill Belichick and cornerback Mack Hollins remain optimistic, emphasizing the necessity of their teammates stepping up to compensate for Brown's absence.\n\nDespite the setback, Hollins opted to lead the team in receptions, contributing with four catches and 51 yards after Brown's injury. This crucial role came after he filled in during the second quarter, capitalizing on his squad's remaining resources. Another wide receiver, Demario Douglas, took over when Brown was sidelined, although he managed to catch only one pass during the games that followed. The team also made a significant move by acquiring Romeo Doubs from the offseason, but he did not manage to secure any catches, while sophomore Kyle Williams was not targeted at all during his brief appearances.\n\nPatriots' offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, known for his ability to devise effective strategies around roster constraints, has faced a fresh challenge with Brown's injury. This setback is not the first time McDaniels has had to adapt to such circumstances, but it is certainly not the most challenging scenario he has encountered. The team's veterans, including Hollins and Demario Douglas, have shown resilience by improving their performance when given more playing time. Meanwhile, the emergence of Romeo Doubs and Kyle Williams will be closely monitored. The Patriots appear well-equipped to navigate through this season without their star player, eagerly awaiting his return to fully restore the team's offensive capabilities.",
  "summary": "New England Patriots wide receiver Mack Hollins had a blunt reaction to A.J. Brown going on injured reserve following Week 1.",
  "key_points": [
    "A.J. Brown sidelined for at least four games due to ankle injury.",
    "Head coach Bill Belichick optimistic about teammates stepping up.",
    "Demario Douglas fills in for Brown, catches four passes."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}