A.J. Brown's powerful message after disappointing Mike Vrabel on Patriots return

The New England Patriots celebrated another important victory on Sunday, but A.J. Brown had little interest in celebrating his own contribution after a mistake-filled return against the New York Jets.

Playing for the first time since suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 1, Brown struggled to rediscover his rhythm, catching just three of 10 targets for 27 yards as New England secured a 26-19 victory.

The receiver was credited with three dropped passes, including a missed opportunity on a deep throw from Drake Maye that could have resulted in a 61-yard touchdown.

Rather than point to his prolonged absence, Brown accepted responsibility for an afternoon that fell well below his expectations.

"I didn't play well," Brown told reporters. "I don't know if the timing was off. I'm much better than what I put on display today, there's no excuses. I'll be better."

Brown's difficulties were particularly noticeable because his return had been anticipated as a significant development for a Patriots offense looking to build momentum.

After missing four games, the veteran receiver was immediately given opportunities to make an impact, but several promising plays ended without the expected result.

Head coach Mike Vrabel acknowledged the disappointment while making clear that Brown retained the coaching staff's confidence.

"I think he could've probably made a few more plays, come down with a few more plays," Vrabel said.

"He's been out for a while. I know that he wanted to do well for his football team, and unfortunately it wasn't his best effort."

Vrabel added that the Patriots have "all the confidence in the world in A.J." to finish those opportunities in future games.

A.J. Brown refuses to blame injury

The receiver's difficult afternoon almost extended into the final moments when he failed to secure an onside kick attempted by New York.

Fortunately for New England, tight end Eli Raridon recovered the loose ball, ensuring the Jets were unable to capitalize on the mistake.

Asked whether his ankle had affected his performance, Brown dismissed the suggestion and insisted he should have converted his opportunities.

"Yeah, I'm all good," Brown said. "Again, no matter whatever question you guys ask, I'm going to tell you guys there's no excuses."

"I stacked my guy, should have made the play. I beat my guy on third down, should have made the play. So, ankle or not, I'll make all those plays."

Maye backs Patriots receiver ahead of Bears matchup

Despite Brown's frustration, Maye remained encouraged by the return of his leading receiving option.

"First of all, it was great to see him back out there," Maye said. "I was just telling him in the locker room, 'Man, you ain't got to worry about one.'"

New England improved to 4-2 with the victory and now faces a quick turnaround before Thursday's meeting with the Chicago Bears.

That matchup provides Brown with an immediate opportunity to respond, although the short preparation window leaves little time to rebuild his timing with Maye.

His first game back exposed the difficulties of returning after an extended absence, but Brown expects considerably more from himself.