Eagles Secure Win, Brown’s Performance Raises Eyebrows
The Philadelphia Eagles claimed their first win of the 2025 season on Thursday night, but one notable player seemed to fade into the background. Veteran wide receiver AJ Brown, who usually stands out as the team’s leading receiver, was surprisingly inactive in their 24-20 victory. He didn’t register his first catch until a late eight-yard grab with less than two minutes remaining on the clock.
This situation sparked discussion during the NBC broadcast, as they highlighted his minimal involvement. Instead, quarterback Jalen Hurts relied on his legs to distribute the ball to other targets, including tight end Dallas Goedert, effectively advancing the offense.
Brown, a three-time Pro Bowl recipient who typically racks up more than 1,000 receiving yards in his seasons, is left to ponder his lack of targets. “You know, that’s not something I can control,” he remarked when questioned about his role in the game. “What I can control is my effort when the ball comes my way.”
Despite the inquiries from reporters about his performance, Brown echoed the same sentiment, indicating that it was out of his hands. On the flip side, the Cowboys’ defense was keen to limit Brown’s influence, as confirmed by defensive coordinator Matt Evalphus, who noted they had dedicated extra coverage to his side of the field.
Goedert ended up having a productive game, hauling in seven catches amounting to 44 yards. Additionally, Hurts successfully connected with Jahan Dotson, the team’s third option, for a notable 52-yard completion.
This was just the opener for the season, and it’s still early to judge Brown’s connection with Hurts, especially after being traded from the Tennessee Titans. Hurts took charge, leading the Eagles to the end zone with two rushing touchdowns, with Saquon Barkley also contributing to the scoreboard with four receptions and a touchdown of his own.
Looking ahead, it’s possible this could merely be an early-season hiccup for Brown. But, as the season progresses, fans will likely pay close attention to how the targeting dynamic evolves in the Eagles’ offense.
