A.J. Brown's Sideline Secret
During the high-pressure world of NFL games, the Philadelphia Eagles’ wide receiver A.J. Brown has adopted a curious ritual. "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy is more than just a book for Brown—it's part of his game day toolkit. His well-worn copy, complete with dog-eared pages and bright highlights, is a testament to its importance in his life.
In a recent playoff clash with the Green Bay Packers, keen-eyed fans noticed Brown indulging in his routine on the sidelines. For many, seeing an athlete channeling such focus into a book during the heat of competition was a novel sight. “It gives me a sense of peace,” Brown confessed. “That's a book I bring every single game. My teammates call it a recipe.” Although his stats from the game—just one catch for 10 yards—might not reflect a standout performance, Brown’s contribution came in less quantifiable forms. “It didn't show on the stats, but I did a lot today for my teammates, blocking and stuff. So it was good,” he added with assurance.
Mind Over Matter
Brown’s dedication to reading underscores the mental aspect of football that often goes unnoticed. As he puts it, “It’s a mental game, a lot of mental parts about it, and what’s for me, the game is mental. I physically believe I can do anything and everything. But I gotta make sure my mental's good.” This mindset is crucial, especially for someone like Brown who needs to stay sharp on every drive, regardless of whether he’s just scored a touchdown or missed a catch.
Interestingly, Brown isn’t facing this journey alone. Eagles captain Jordan Mailata wholeheartedly backs his teammate’s habit. “He does that every game. It's a mindset. It's a mindset book,” says Mailata, brushing off any notions of drama. “Now we’re talking about him reading a book on the sidelines. He’s been doing it all year. Let’s not start drama!”
A Bestselling Companion
It's not just Brown who has found value in Murphy's work; the book has even reached No.1 bestseller status on Amazon. It’s a testament to its widespread appeal and relevance. As Brown explains, “It states that if you can have a clear mind... and remember that nothing else matters. A clear mind and a clear conscience. Nothing else matters negative or positive. Be willing to take risks. It also says if you’re humble, you can’t be embarrassed.”
Despite coping with a knee injury, Brown remains steadfast in his routine, demonstrating how much he values the inner game as much as the physical one. For those who watch him, and perhaps even for those on other sidelines, Brown’s approach could serve as a unique recipe for achieving excellence—not just in sports, but in life. As the Eagles continue their season, fans and teammates will undoubtedly watch to see how Brown’s literary companion influences his play both on and off the field.