A.J. Brown weighs in on rookie Drake Maye’s early struggles

A.J. Brown, the Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver, weighed in on rookie Drake Maye’s rocky start to the 2026 season after the New England Patriots quarterback’s first two games.

What did A.J. Brown say?

Brown, speaking to reporters on 18 July 2026, said he’s not surprised by Maye’s early challenges. “Every rookie goes through it,” Brown noted. “The league doesn’t get easier when the lights are brightest.” His remarks came after Maye threw three interceptions in Week 1 and struggled to move the Patriots’ offense in Week 2.

Why does this matter for A.J. Brown?

The comments put Brown at the center of a growing debate about rookie quarterbacks in the NFL. As a veteran receiver with five straight 1,000-yard seasons, his perspective carries weight. “I’ve lined up against plenty of young arms,” Brown added. “The game’s about patience and execution.” The Eagles face the Patriots in Week 4, giving Brown a chance to see Maye’s progress up close.

What’s next for Drake Maye?

Maye, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 draft, has drawn early comparisons to other rookie struggles. But his coaches insist they’re not panicking. “We’re building something here,” said Jerod Mayo, the Patriots’ head coach. “Rookies don’t turn into stars overnight.” Maye’s next outing comes on 25 July 2026 against the Buffalo Bills.

How will this affect the Eagles?

For Brown, the focus stays on his own team’s Super Bowl push. Still, his take on Maye adds intrigue to their Week 4 matchup. The Eagles, coming off a 12-5 season, are hunting for a title. “We don’t care who’s under center for them,” Brown said. “We’ll be ready.”