2026 Week 8 Fantasy Football: A.J. Brown Limited in Patriots Practice

According to ProFootballTalk (NBC Sports), Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, a reminder that the ankle injury that cost him four games is still not fully behind him. Drake Maye, meanwhile, was a full participant — good news for the QB's fantasy managers, even if it doesn't directly change his outlook this week.

A.J. Brown

Brown's return from a four-game absence has already been described as "a bit rocky" by ProFootballTalk (NBC Sports), and this limited practice designation keeps the concern alive heading into Week 8 against the Dolphins. The source notes New England hopes the extended rest following last Thursday's game helps him settle more fully into the offense — but "hope" isn't a green light. Hold him if you can, but have a backup plan ready until he practices fully. Dynasty managers can stay calm; this is a short-term situation, not a structural concern.

If Brown's status deteriorates or he's ruled out, DeMario Douglas is the clearest beneficiary. He's averaging 4.9 targets per game this season across 55.3% snap share (percentage of offensive plays on the field) in seven games — easily the most substantial role among New England's backup receivers. Efton Chism III (48.2% snap share, 2.5 targets/game) would also see a bump. Kyle Williams is deeper on the depth chart and a lower-priority add at this point.

Drake Maye

Maye practiced fully Wednesday despite a right shoulder notation on the injury report. The source lists him as a full participant, so there's no fantasy concern here as of Wednesday. Monitor the rest of the week's reports as routine due diligence, but nothing in this story changes his Week 8 outlook.