New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown dropped the first pass of training camp from quarterback Drake Maye, drawing immediate criticism from head coach Mike Vrabel. Brown, who played under Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans (2019-21), said he now understands the coaching comes from a "great place." The play occurred along the left sideline with cornerback Christian Gonzalez in coverage; Brown caught the ball away from his body but couldn't complete the process with his other hand.

Brown, who turned 29 on June 30 and was acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles on June 1, said he has about 90% of coordinator Josh McDaniels' playbook down. He emphasized the need for "nonstop communication" with Maye, citing a Sunday practice where a high throw was tipped and intercepted by safety Craig Woodson. Brown called Maye a "true professional" and noted coaches are limiting downfield throws early in camp. "We'll get going. That's camp progression," he said. Of his time in Foxborough, Brown added: "I come to work each and every day with a smile on my face... We're pushing each other to be great."