This is a significant development for New England’s passing game.

Brown had already established himself as Drake Maye’s leading receiver before the injury, catching three passes for 26 yards and drawing a key defensive pass interference penalty near the goal line.

If Brown cannot return or misses additional time, New England would have to redistribute meaningful target volume across the rest of the passing game.

Brown managers should hold and wait for the postgame update before making any roster decisions.

Do not assume this is a long-term absence yet.

The immediate fantasy move is to monitor DeMario Douglas, Romeo Doubs and Hunter Henry for increased opportunity if Brown’s ankle injury costs him time.

A.J. Brown left New England’s season opener against Seattle after suffering a right ankle injury early in the third quarter.

The injury occurred on a third-down slant attempt when a Seahawks defender appeared to land on Brown’s ankle as the pass was broken up.

Brown was attended to on the field, walked off slowly with trainers, entered the blue medical tent and later went to the locker room.

He is officially QUESTIONABLE to return.

The important question is no longer whether Brown left the game — it is whether this ankle injury affects his Week 2 availability.

Until New England provides additional information, Brown remains a HOLD and the Patriots’ secondary pass-catchers move onto the FAZE watch list.