The New England Patriots are opening the practice window for A.J. Brown, head coach Mike Vrabel announced Wednesday, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
The move gives the Patriots 21 days to activate Brown off injured reserve. The wideout has been sidelined since suffering a high ankle sprain in a season-opening loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
Brown had reportedly been pushing to practice this week, Rapoport adds.
Meanwhile, Cornerback Christian Gonzalez said he's "ready to go for Sunday" after missing the last two games due to a shoulder injury, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.
New England has gone 3-1 without Brown. Romeo Doubs has stepped up in his absence by leading the team in receiving yards (219) and catching two touchdowns. Mack Hollins has also contributed with 209 yards on 15 catches.
The Patriots acquired Brown for a 2028 first-round pick in an offseason trade with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Patriots (3-2) face the New York Jets on Sunday. They only trail the Buffalo Bills (4-1) in the AFC East.
