Much was made about the lack of targets for AJ Brown in the Philadelphia Eagles' season-opening 24-20 win over the Dallas Cowboys. There has been a history of seeing Brown upset or animated, on the sideline, wanting to have a bigger part, whether with the Titans or Eagles; this has been a piece of the story. However, it was overblown as Brown backed up all his words last year by willingly taking a backseat at times to adjust to whatever was needed to win.
Week 1 was no different, with the Cowboys' zone strategy leaving other targets easier to hit and giving Jalen Hurts the ability to create with his legs. NFL Insider Jordan Schultz sat down to talk with Brown, who yet again had the perfect response to the concerns when it comes to the lack of production in the first week of the season. Brown said the following when questioned about the online reaction to the dip in production: “None of those things are true. I got zoned the entire game. ... Just know I’m excited for Week 2.”
Eagles Receiver AJ Brown Embracing Winning Culture Above Personal Accolades
Schultz pointed out in the interview that Brown remained incredibly engaged throughout the game, despite the lack of targets. Reviewing the tape, this holds up with Brown consistently attacking as a blocker and running his routes with energy as if he had 10 catches on the night instead of zero. It was a testament to a player who embraced Philly and, above all else, values contributing to winning.
With that said, it is obvious that Brown is looking forward to Week 2 and hoping for different results. It isn't wrong for a player of his talent level to expect a far heavier workload. The ability to find open space and win one-on-one matchups has put the veteran receiver in a conversation among the league's elite. A big piece of this was on display in last Thursday's season-opening win.
Even a receiver without Brown's pedigree had every reason to pitch a fit on the sideline or fuss at his quarterback for failing to deliver the ball. As the primary receiver, you expect to be involved in the season's first game from the opening drive. However, Brown put this aside and understood his role that night was to do what was necessary to help Philly win.
It is this mentality that has kept hopes alive that the Eagles could turn last year's Super Bowl win into the start of a dynasty. This attitude starts at the top with quarterback Jalen Hurts showing a clear abandon for his own personal stats. If handing the ball off thirty times is the path to winning, that is an avenue Hurts will willingly embrace.
Brown's comments reflect this and speak to the potential organizational greatness that will keep fans excited about the season ahead. With all of that said, fans should expect a tone-setting game from Brown against the Chiefs after a week full of noise.