Two-time Super Bowl winner Asante Samuel believes that the New England Patriots’ offence is not the right fit for wide receiver A.J. Brown.
The three-time Pro Bowler recorded three receptions for 48 yards in the New England Patriots’ 24-30 loss to the Chicago Bears. It was another underwhelming performance from Brown, who played his second game after returning from an injury he suffered against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 1.
In the game against the Jets, Brown’s performance could have cost the Patriots the game, as he dropped several catches and failed to control an onside kick, which could have led to a possession for the Jets. However, the situation was handled by his teammate.
It was expected that Brown would make some progress against the Bears, but he was constantly in coverage and was not able to get himself open, leading to another poor offensive showing for the Patriots.
Asante Samuel says A.J. Brown can’t thrive in the Patriots’ system
Brown’s trade to the Patriots was expected to help the team become Super Bowl contenders, but so far there has been no evidence to suggest that he can help the team get back to competing for the Lombardi.
Granted that injuries have slowed down his start, but based on what he has seen from Brown in two games, Samuel is convinced that the Patriots’ offence will not work for Brown unless he makes a major correction.
“A.J. Brown, he was a non-factor in this game against the Chicago Bears. I just have to admit it, this isn’t the system for him, this isn’t the system for him to thrive. There is no role for A.J. Brown in this system if he can’t create separation that he needs to create or make plays that Mike Vrabel expects him to make,” said Samuel on Say What Needs to be Said podcast.
Undoubtedly, Brown is one of the premier wide receivers in the league, which is why coaches ensure there is proper coverage to prevent any passes from going to him. While the same trend has been observed this season, Brown has also dropped some catchable passes, which has increased the criticism around him.
“When Drake Maye completes a big play down the field, A.J. Brown isn’t the recipient, so what is A.J. Brown’s role in this offence, he isn’t coming down with the goal balls, other players are making the big plays in this game,” Samuel added.
The four-time Pro Bowler also suggested that the Patriots should try giving WR Pop Douglas more chances with Brown failing to perform.
After the game, Brown revealed that teams were intentionally taking him out of the game, but he believes that this is giving others an opportunity to shine. However, the Patriots would rather see their star signing perform well, as Brown is a player who can determine games when he gets going.
His two full performances have been far from his best, but both the player and the team are confident that Brown can bounce back strongly and lead the offence like everyone would have imagined soon.
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