NFL Network: Patriots WR A.J. Brown expected to miss six weeks with high ankle sprain

More clarity has emerged on A.J. Brown's timeline to return from his Week 1 injury.

The Patriots receiver is expected to miss six weeks with the high ankle sprain he suffered in Wednesday's season-opening loss to the Seahawks, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Sunday morning.

Brown was placed on injured reserve this week, knocking him out for a minimum of four weeks. The New England wideout is slated to be sidelined for at least two more than necessary.

The reigning AFC champions are now expected to be without their top offseason acquisition for over a quarter of the 2026 season. New England plays four 2025 playoff clubs in its next six games: vs. Steelers, at Jaguars, at Bills, vs. Raiders, vs. Jets, at Bears.

Before exiting Wednesday's loss, Brown had three catches on four targets for 26 yards in his first game for New England since his offseason trade from Philadelphia.

The pressure will be on Drake Maye to elevate the play of Romeo Doubs, Mack Hollins, Demario Douglas and his other pass catchers with Brown out.

New England (0-1) hosts Pittsburgh in its Foxborough opener next Sunday at 1 p.m. ET.