Rob Gronkowski predicts breakout season for Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 7:04 PM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Rob Gronkowski predicts breakout season for Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown
Summary

The New England Patriots added wide receiver A.J. Brown to the roster following a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles on January 1, 2026. New England sent a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Philadelphia to acquire the receiver. Rob Gronkowski expressed optimism regarding the acquisition during an appearance on the Up & Adams show, suggesting that Brown will record his best career season while playing alongside quarterback Drake Maye. Brown previously posted consecutive 1,400-yard seasons in Philadelphia, though his final tenure there included friction with coach Nick Sirianni and a playoff exit. The receiver is expected to make his regular-season debut for New England next week. Head coach Mike Vrabel now leads a team looking to improve upon a 14-3 campaign as they aim for the top of the AFC East.

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Key Details
  • A.J. Brown joined the New England Patriots in a January 2026 trade with the Philadelphia Eagles.
  • Rob Gronkowski anticipates Brown will achieve career-best statistics in the upcoming season.
  • The trade package for Brown included a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick.
  • Brown is scheduled to make his Patriots regular-season debut next week.
  • Gronkowski identified the arrival of Brown as a key factor for the team's AFC East title prospects.
Latest Updates
  • 7:04 PMYahoo Sports'His Heart Was Revived': Why Patriots Legend is Tipping A.J. Brown to Have 'Best Year Ever'
What they're saying
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A.J. Brown finds himself in pastures new in 2026. Rob Gronkowski thinks that will only propel the Patriots wide receiver to new heights.

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