Patriots' A.J. Brown exits season opener with ankle injury

New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown was forced to leave the season-opening game against the Seattle Seahawks after injuring his lower right ankle in the third quarter. The injury occurred when Seahawks cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett made contact on a low throw, causing Brown to grab above his ankle and remain on the field. He was ruled out for the remainder of the contest, and Seattle rallied to win 13-10.

Brown had recorded three receptions for 26 yards before the injury, including a key play that resulted in a defensive pass-interference penalty and set up a rookie tight end's touchdown, the only score of the first half. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel declined to comment on Brown's condition after the game, and reports indicated the player was seen exiting the locker room in a walking boot.

The Patriots acquired Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles during the offseason, hoping to strengthen their receiving corps. He has posted six 1,000-yard seasons in seven NFL campaigns, making his early-season absence a notable setback for New England.