A.J. Brown cracks Steve Smith’s dynasty WR rankings for Patriots

A.J. Brown has cracked Steve Smith Sr.’s dynasty wide-receiver rankings for the first time since 2019.

What happened?

On 15 July 2026, Steve Smith Sr.-ESPN senior analyst and Hall of Fame wideout-published his annual dynasty positional rankings. Brown, now in his eighth NFL season, debuted at No. 12 among wide receivers, vaulting past multiple veterans who have played the spot in recent years.

Why it matters for A.J. Brown

Smith’s list is a benchmark for dynasty managers hunting long-term value. Landing inside the top 20 at any skill position is rare for a player in his prime, yet Brown’s blend of route-running polish and big-play ability earned the nod. The ranking arrives as Brown prepares for his second season with the New England Patriots under first-year coach Jerod Mayo, who has promised to feature him as a primary target.

Where Brown stands among Patriots receivers

The Patriots already boast a deep receiving corps, yet Brown’s physical profile and rapport with quarterback Drake Maye give him a clear edge. Smith’s rankings weigh peak performance and projected longevity; Brown’s 2025 tape-1,350 yards and 11 scores-shows he can still dominate outside the numbers. His No. 12 slot also edges out veterans like Mike Evans (No. 14) and Keenan Allen (No. 16), underscoring the gap between Brown’s current form and the aging stars ahead of him.

What comes next?

Brown will report to Patriots training camp on 27 July in Foxborough. Dynasty owners drafting this week are eyeing him as a mid-tier WR1 who could climb further if Maye’s rookie poise holds. Smith’s rankings rarely change overnight, but one elite playoff run could push Brown into the top 10 by Labor Day.