Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown delved into the mindset of elite wide receivers on Wednesday, addressing his visible frustration during the team’s recent blowout win over the New York Giants.
“They throw the ball to me 100 times, I’m going to want it 101 times,” Brown asserted. “Personally, I believe I can change the game at any moment. Getting the ball frequently keeps you sharp, keeps you in sync. It puts you in a zone; you’re locked in. Of course, I want the ball.”
During the game’s final moments, with the Eagles comfortably ahead 31-7, television cameras captured coach Nick Sirianni speaking with Brown on the sideline. Sirianni later explained that Brown, who had three receptions for 22 yards on six targets against the Giants, was frustrated by his limited opportunities.
“Of course, he always wants the ball. He’s an exceptional player,” Sirianni remarked on Monday.
“No one in our passing game received many targets or chances because we were running the ball effectively. But that’s what you want from your receivers—they crave the ball and that desire contributes to their effectiveness.”
AJ Brown (Photo: NFL)
Despite dealing with what is believed to be a leg/hip injury, Brown confirmed on Wednesday that he is “good to go” for Sunday’s NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Regarding his approach, Brown drew a distinction between wanting the ball and being a diva.
“I’m not the type of receiver to cause disruptions on the sideline. That’s not who I am,” Brown emphasized. “That’s what you might call a diva, but that’s not me. I’m the guy who talks to the quarterback and the offensive coordinator. I handle it that way.”
Brown also emphasized his readiness to contribute beyond receiving duties, highlighting his willingness to block effectively when required, as he did last week to assist DeVonta Smith’s touchdown.
Acquired from the Tennessee Titans in April for a first- and third-round pick, Brown capped the regular season fourth in the NFL with 1,496 receiving yards and tied for third with 11 receiving touchdowns. His contributions helped the Eagles achieve a franchise-record 14 wins and secure the NFC’s top seed.
