It's possible A.J. Brown doesn't play against the Miami Dolphins Sunday after he was unable to finish practice on Wednesday, according to Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel.
"His status is questionable, like some other players, and we’ll see how he comes in tomorrow, and we’ll make a decision," Vrabel said Friday.
Brown landed on the injury report this week with a knee issue, and did not practice Thursday. He previously missed four games on injured reserve with a high ankle sprain, which he sustained during New England's season opener in Seattle.
"It’s like everything else when you come out of a game, a long week, or practice – evaluate the player," Vrabel said. "[He] just wasn’t able to practice – or finish practice – on Wednesday. So, we continue to treat him, and then we’ll see where he is tomorrow."
The 29-year-old receiver has had rumors of a long-term knee injury follow him, dating back to his later years with the Tennessee Titans. Vrabel didn't say whether the injury he sustained this week was something that may impact the bigger picture with Brown, and All-Pro player for whom the Patriots traded heavy draft capital last summer.
When asked whether he was rushed back from IR, Vrabel called the situations "separate issues."
Brown has not looked like himself since his return, dropping multiple passes against the Jets, and then posting just 48 receiving yards against the Bears. The Patriots had a short week with Thursday Night Football upon his return, but they benefit from a long weekend after traveling to Chicago.
Two of the team's other most productive receivers, Mack Hollins and Romeo Doubs, remain on injured reserve. Those injuries leave Drake Maye with DeMario Douglas, Kyle Williams, and Efton Chism, if Brown doesn't make the trip.
The 4-3 Patriots face the 1-5 Dolphins on the road at 4:25 p.m. Sunday.
