Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown departed after an awkward tackle at the end of the team’s Week 15 contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Below is the latest on Philly’s WR1.
What Happened to A.J. Brown?
Brown caught a pass with 3:11 remaining, but was pulled to the ground on an apparent hip-drop tackle from Steelers defensive back James Pierre. No penalty was called on the play.
#AJBrown
Drops ball with hip drop tackle.
Hope he avoids serious left ankle injury as foot not planted. pic.twitter.com/GqZDKyevIy— David J. Chao – ProFootballDoc (@ProFootballDoc) December 16, 2024
Brown hobbled off to the sideline but did not exit into the blue medical tent or the locker room. He remained with his helmet on, but this is a case where game script may have dictated his availability. With the Eagles leading 27-13 late in the game, Nick Sirianni also chose to pull Saquon Barkley from the game.
A.J. Brown is back on his feet after getting one of his legs looked at (couldn't tell for certain which one).
He looks ready to come back in, but I'm not sure Nick Sirianni or Aaron Moorehead are interested in him pushing it. #Eagles https://t.co/uvo7Hh6jJ4
— EJ Smith (@EJSmith94) December 16, 2024
Brown enjoyed a significant bounceback game after venting about the Eagles’ passing game struggles after last week’s game vs. the Carolina Panthers. The fifth-year wideout had eight receptions for 110 yards and a touchdown on a season-high 11 targets. Last week, Brown had his lowest target rate of the season (15.4%).
Fantasy Impact If Brown Is Out
It was definitely a squeaky wheel game for Brown, who was targeted early and often by Jalen Hurts. The veteran WR caught eight passes for 110 yards and a touchdown before departing.
If Brown is out, we know what this means — DeVonta Smith becomes the clear top option in this passing game. Already down Dallas Goedert, when the Eagles do opt to throw, it will be heavy on Smith. He averaged 17.75 fantasy points per game in his two contests without Brown earlier this season.