FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL: The Patriots lost No. 1 receiver A.J. Brown for at least four weeks because of a right high ankle sprain, and he was placed on injured reserve Friday.

The schedule adds pressure: New England is the only team facing a 2025 playoff team in each of its first four weeks, at Seahawks, vs. Steelers, at Jaguars and at Bills. After that, the schedule eases. Veteran receiver Mack Hollins said the approach is to keep playing.

There is no one-for-one replacement for Brown, who caught more passes from quarterback Drake Maye than anyone in training camp and ranks No. 9 among wide receivers in ESPN's offseason execs ranking. The Patriots traded a 2028 first-round pick for him in June, but coordinator Josh Mc Daniels' offense has long reshaped attacks around injuries and available strengths.

Hollins mostly took over Brown's role in the second half Wednesday. Efton Chism III could move from inactive to the 48-man roster, while Kyle Williams could see more time after 12 snaps without a catch. Romeo Doubs, signed to a four-year, $68 million contract in March, also must improve after a rocky opener. The Patriots now reshuffle receiver cards before hosting the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Sept. 20.