A.J. Brown returns as Patriots beat Jets

A.J. Brown returned to the New England Patriots’ lineup Sunday after missing four games with a high ankle sprain, but had a difficult outing in a 26-19 win over the New York Jets. Activated from injured reserve Saturday, Brown started the Week 6 game. He caught three passes for 27 yards on 10 targets, and the postgame account also reported three drops. Brown had been limited in all three practices during the week before his return. The receiver was injured in the second half of New England’s season-opening loss to Seattle on Sept. 9. He played 31 snaps before leaving the game and had three catches for 26 yards. The Patriots placed him on injured reserve, requiring him to miss at least four games before he could return. Brown’s first game back included an early incomplete pass from quarterback Drake Maye and drops as the game progressed. One came on a deep target in the second quarter. He also failed to secure a Jets onside kick, but teammate Eli Raridon recovered the ball, and New England ran out the final 32 seconds. Brown took responsibility for the missed opportunities after the game, saying, “No excuses. Ankle or not, I should make those plays.” Coach Mike Vrabel said it...