Brown Returns to Face Eagles in Joint Practices
A.J. Brown faces his former team in joint practices, showing comfort with Drake Maye while Saquon Barkley criticizes the physical nature of the sessions.
The update
A.J. Brown faced his former Eagles teammates during two joint practices between the Patriots and Eagles. The veteran receiver appeared to put extra emphasis on the sessions, nearly catching a touchdown against former teammate Quinyon Mitchell. Brown acknowledged “Q got away with a little holding” but also took responsibility for not finishing the play. He caught all seven of his targets in team drills, showing chemistry with new Patriots quarterback Drake Maye. Meanwhile, Eagles running back Saquon Barkley expressed his dislike for joint practices, calling them “immature” when “you get the pushing, the shoving and someone says this about you.”
Why it matters
Brown’s performance against his former team suggests a smooth transition to New England after his blockbuster trade. His comfort level with Drake Maye contrasts with his strained relationship with Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. The joint practices revealed both personal dynamics and team chemistry as both franchises prepare for the regular season.
What to watch
The physical nature of joint practices has drawn criticism from players like Barkley, who called the shoving and verbal sparring “immature.”
Sources
- cbssports.com — Details on Brown's performance against Eagles and comments about his relationship with Hurts
- NJ.com — Barkley's criticism of joint practices and team tensions
