A.J. Brown Finds His Calm During Playoff Game by Reading a Book on the Sideline
PHILADELPHIA — As the Philadelphia Eagles built a solid lead in the fourth quarter of their wild-card playoff game, wide receiver A.J. Brown did something unexpected. He sat on the sideline, grabbed a book, and started reading.
The book, titled Inner Excellence by Jim Murphy, is about staying mentally strong and focused. For Brown, it was the perfect way to stay calm during the high-pressure game.
“In tough moments, it’s easy to feel anxious because so much is out of your control,” Brown read aloud later from a highlighted passage in the book. “But when you’re fully engaged in life, you can perform your best and enjoy the challenge.”
Brown’s performance that day wasn’t his usual standout. He had just one catch for 10 yards, but he found other ways to help his team. Whether it was blocking for his teammates, running routes to draw defenders, or motivating his teammates, Brown focused on what he could control.
“It gives me peace,” Brown said after the game. “Football is mental. I believe I can do anything, but my mind has to be in the right place.”
A Book Recommendation That Made a Difference
The story of how Brown found this book starts with his teammate, defensive tackle Moro Ojomo. After a Week 3 game earlier in the season, Ojomo began reading Inner Excellence. He had heard about it from a coach and thought it might help him.
“I felt like I should share it with A.J.,” Ojomo explained. “The book reminds you to focus on what you can control and live with joy.”
Brown took the recommendation seriously. He not only read the book but also highlighted passages and wrote notes in it. Soon, he was bringing it to games and reading it between plays to stay focused.
Whether he scored touchdowns or dropped passes, the book reminded him to stay calm and not judge himself too harshly.
Eagles Defense Shines in Win
While the offense struggled at times, the Eagles’ defense carried the day. Backup linebackers forced a fumble on the opening kickoff, and three different defenders intercepted Packers quarterback Jordan Love.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts had an up-and-down game, completing just 131 passing yards, but the Eagles’ running game and defense made up for it. Running back Saquon Barkley rushed for 119 yards, and the Eagles took advantage of Green Bay’s mistakes, securing a 22-10 victory.
Preparing for the Next Game
The Eagles now turn their attention to their next opponent, either the Minnesota Vikings or Los Angeles Rams. Brown’s mindset, fueled by his reading, will be key as the team looks to improve its offensive performance.
Brown has a history of stepping up in big moments. Earlier in the season, when the Eagles’ passing game struggled, he challenged himself and his teammates to do better. The following week, he had a standout performance, proving that he thrives under pressure.
For Brown, staying focused and mentally strong is part of his preparation. And for his teammates, whatever helps him perform at his best is fine with them.
“That’s just A.J.,” said left tackle Jordan Mailata. “If reading a book helps him, we’re all for it. Maybe I’ll try it next game. Who knows? Maybe some Green Eggs and Ham will help me, too.”
As the Eagles move forward in the playoffs, one thing is clear: A.J. Brown’s mental strength and unique approach are as important as his physical skills on the field.
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