Mike Vrabel says Patriots will decide on A.J. Brown's status for Dolphins game tomorrow

Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown missed the start of practice on Friday, his second consecutive absence while managing injuries to his ankle and knee. The team is preparing for Sunday's road game against the Dolphins, which serves as the final session before they travel to Miami on Saturday. Head coach Mike Vrabel listed Brown as questionable to play in Week 8. If Brown does not join the team's flight around 3 p.m. Saturday, he will be ruled out.

Brown returned from a high ankle sprain two weeks ago. He was limited by a knee issue during Wednesday's practice session, which he did not finish. Vrabel confirmed the player has not practiced since that day. Vrabel explained the evaluation process, noting that the staff assesses the player's status daily. He stated that the team continues to treat the injuries and will determine the final decision tomorrow.

The Patriots acquired Brown from the Eagles in June in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection. Reports indicate the team was aware of a degenerative knee condition before the trade was completed. When asked if the organization rushed Brown's return from the ankle injury, Vrabel maintained that the ankle and knee are separate issues.

Brown played 76.5 percent of offensive snaps in Week 6 and 90.7 percent in Week 7. Vrabel emphasized the desire to have their best players on the field. He noted the team is focused on securing a divisional victory on the road. The coaching staff will finalize the status of all questionable players tomorrow.

If Brown sits out Sunday, the Patriots' 53-man roster will rely on Efton Chism, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams at wide receiver. Romeo Doubs and Mack Hollins remain on injured reserve. The team also carries four practice squad receivers: Ryan Miller, Chandler Brayboy, Cameron Dorner, and Kyle Dixon.

Wide receivers coach Todd Downing praised the practice squad group's work ethic. He highlighted Miller as a seasoned addition who is adapting quickly to the terminology. Downing noted that Brayboy has improved his decision-making speed, citing the extra meetings conducted by offensive assistant Riley Larkin. He also commended Dorner for his movement skills and Dixon for his physical development since training camp.

Miller brings the most experience to the group, having begun the season with the Dolphins. He has recorded 444 career offensive snaps and 421 snaps on special teams. The Patriots will make their final personnel decisions ahead of the Sunday contest.