Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown dismissed speculation about his declining production by pointing to running back Saquon Barkley\'s similar statistical downturn this season. Brown has 38 catches for 457 yards and three touchdowns in nine games, putting him on pace for 812 yards. That would mark a career low for the star receiver.
The Eagles offense has struggled across multiple metrics despite the team\'s 8-2 record. Philadelphia ranks 25th in total yards, 28th in passing yards and 29th in third-down conversion rate. The Eagles are averaging 115 rushing yards per game compared to 179 last season.
\"I guess Saquon ain\'t the same player either, then,\" Brown said Thursday when asked about his production.
Barkley is on pace for 1,125 rushing yards after gaining 2,005 yards last season. The Eagles do lead the NFL with a 75 percent red zone conversion rate and have committed only four turnovers. Philadelphia\'s defense has played at a high level recently, helping the team maintain first place in the NFC.
Brown said he avoids watching other receivers around the league because \"it gets me upset.\" He deflected questions about reported frustration directed toward quarterback Jalen Hurts, instead redirecting focus to Sunday\'s opponent.
\"Ask me about Dallas. Thank you,\" Brown said.
Brown has shown frustration at various points this season through social media and media interviews. He consistently emphasized his desire to contribute to team success. The receiver said the offense is close to clicking and needs to clean up mistakes.
\"We\'re desperate, too. We\'re trying to get it going,\" Brown said when asked about facing a 4-5-1 Cowboys team.
Via Tim McManus/ESPN