The Philadelphia Eagles are on the verge of securing a victory against the Green Bay Packers in the wild card round of the NFL playoffs. With Philadelphia holding a 19-10 lead late in the fourth quarter, a potential trip to the divisional round is at stake. While there is still time for Green Bay to mount a comeback, Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown appears relaxed and at ease. Following a successful field goal by Jake Elliott, Brown was spotted on the sidelines engrossed in a book, seemingly unfazed by the game’s intensity.
The sight of Brown reading a book during a crucial playoff game sparked intrigue and amusement among spectators and commentators alike. Color commentator Tom Brady humorously remarked, “I haven’t seen too many people read books but I have seen a quarterback eat a hot dog,” in reference to former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez. The book that captured Brown’s attention was identified as “Inner Excellence” by Jim Murphy, a title designed to enhance mental fortitude for peak performance and overall fulfillment.
Despite Brown’s unconventional sideline activity, he swiftly transitioned back to engaging with his teammates after his brief reading session. By the time the broadcast captured him sans book, Brown had accumulated one catch for 10 yards on three targets during the Eagles’ matchup against the Packers.
Following the Eagles’ triumphant victory over the Packers, Brown fielded questions in the locker room regarding his reading habits during the game. In response, Brown candidly explained his rationale, stating, “Y’all just caught me at that time. I’m doing it every drive regardless of if I score a touchdown or drop a pass; that’s how I refocus.” When probed about potential frustration regarding his offensive involvement, Brown dismissed such notions with a chuckle, emphasizing his genuine enjoyment of reading as a form of relaxation and mental clarity.
Brown elaborated on his reading routine, mentioning that he often revisits specific sections of the book to aid in resetting his mindset. Contrary to assumptions of frustration, Brown clarified, “I was not frustrated at all. I figured that’s what [you all] probably thought. I wasn’t frustrated… I like to read.”
The episode involving Brown’s book reading during the playoff game added an element of intrigue to an already intense and high-stakes matchup. It provided a glimpse into the unique methods employed by athletes to maintain focus and mental composure amidst the pressures of professional sports.
This article was originally featured on USA TODAY, shedding light on A.J. Brown’s explanation for his choice to indulge in reading during a critical juncture in the Eagles’ playoff journey.
