Drake Maye Speaks Out on A.J. Brown as the New England Patriots Face WR Problems

Drake Maye during a New England Patriots game.© X/@BeerlyFootball

Drake Maye welcomed A.J. Brown back to practice as the New England Patriots prepared for their trip to Germany. The quarterback spent much of the season without the receiver he expected to lead his passing attack. Brown's injury problems kept him out of several games, leaving Maye with fewer options on offense. Now, with the receiver back on the practice field, Maye shared his thoughts on having the veteran around again, although his return to game action was not certain.

Drake Maye shares his thoughts on A.J. Brown

Getting Brown involved again was good news, especially with the New England Patriots needing more help in their passing game. The quarterback did not hide his excitement when asked about the receiver's return to practice.

Drake Maye on #Patriots WR A.J. Brown being back at practice: “Yeah, it's been great having him out there. Anytime you got a player like A.J. getting out there a little bit and seeing how he feels [it's great]. We got a lot of great guys that I feel like can make plays… The biggest thing I like is to try to get them the ball and then see what they can do.”

— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) November 12, 2026

"Yeah, it's been great having him out there," Maye said. "Anytime you got a player like A.J. getting out there a little bit and seeing how he feels [it's great]. We got a lot of great guys that I feel like can make plays… The biggest thing I like is to try to get them the ball and then see what they can do."

Brown missed the previous two games with a knee problem after an earlier ankle injury. He appeared in just three games during his first season with New England, making his availability a major concern for the offense.

The receiver managed to return to consecutive practice sessions in Germany ahead of Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions.

The Patriots listed him as a limited participant on Thursday, according to USA TODAY Sports. His participation gave some hope, but the team has not confirmed whether he would be ready to play.

New England Patriots struggle with injuries

The Patriots were without Romeo Doubs, who was on injured reserve, while tight end Hunter Henry has been limited in practice.

Whereas Mack Hollins only recently worked his way back from injured reserve.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson has been ruled out against Detroit after dealing with health problems. Rhamondre Stevenson was another problem after suffering a knee injury against Green Bay, but he has shown some positive signs before the next game.

The shortage of options added pressure on Maye, who struggled in the Patriots' 45-27 loss to the Packers. He threw three interceptions, marking his second three-pick game of the season. Stevenson lost a fumble as New England committed four turnovers.

But Maye took responsibility for his performance, saying, "I wasn't good today."