Patriots' Mike Vrabel Leaves Door Open For A.J. Brown to Play vs Lions

The New England Patriots will be heading to Germany this week to take on the Detroit Lions, giving the team a chance to grab another win.

New England fell last week to the Green Bay Packers, bringing their record down to 5-4 on the season. The Patriots were dominated throughout the game against Green Bay, giving some pause to the recent strong play from the team.

The offense was a real problem again for the Patriots, with quarterback Drake Maye struggling once again. Maye threw three turnovers as the Packers defense completely consumed him.

But the Patriots were dealing with multiple injuries to its wide receiving core, leaving Maye without many players to throw the ball too. However, the signal-caller could be getting a big piece of the offense back this week against Detroit.

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel provided an update on injured wide receiver A.J. Brown ahead of the game against the Lions. Vrabel said that Brown will be traveling with the team to Germany, but that it remains unknown if the veteran will play.

The head coach did make it clear that just because Brown was traveling with the team didn't mean that he would suit up. However, the Patriots are hopeful that they can get the star wideout back on the field this week.

With where the Patriots are right now, the team needs Brown to get back on the field, providing a spark to the offense. New England has struggled heavily this season, with multiple players going out due to injury.

But even when Brown has played, he hasn't been able to help out the team much, which has also become a problem. So far this year, Brown has posted nine catches for 101 yards and a fumble. 

New England traded a lot for Brown over the offseason, and at least so far, the trade looks like a mistake from the team. While injuries have played a factor in his play this season, the veteran hasn't been able to make an impact on the team when on the field.

If Brown can get back on the field for the game against Detroit, it could provide a spark to this offensive unit. New England is going to have to put up points against the Lions, who own an explosive offensive attack themselves.

The Patriots can't afford to keep dropping games, making this contest against Detroit almost a must-win this week.