
Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson has stepped forward to defend Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown, who has found himself under heavy scrutiny early in the 2025 NFL season.
Despite the team’s undefeated 4-0 start, Brown’s personal numbers haven’t lived up to expectations, recording only 14 receptions for 151 yards and one touchdown through four games. His latest outing against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers raised further concerns, where he managed just two catches for seven yards on nine targets.
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Speaking on his Nightcap Show with Shannon Sharpe, Ochocinco expressed frustration with how quickly fans and media turn on elite players when the stat sheet doesn’t reflect their capabilities.
“Do you understand what that does to players mentally?” he asked, emphasizing that even though the team is winning, players like Brown want to contribute in meaningful ways.
“Not only am I the No. 1 wide receiver,” Brown has said previously, “but I am the captain of the team for a reason. Allow me to be part of the offense.” This aligns with Ochocinco’s sentiment that someone earning $33 million and serving as a leader should be more integrated into the offensive game plan.
Balancing expectations and team cohesion
Brown has a track record that makes the current dip even more puzzling. In 2024, he totaled 1,079 yards and seven touchdowns, playing a key role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning campaign.
In 2023, he logged 1,456 yards and seven scores, following a breakout 2022 season with 1,496 yards and 11 touchdowns. That consistency made him the cornerstone of Philadelphia’s aerial attack.
However, this season has been different. Brown’s emotional connection to the game has drawn criticism before, especially after he was seen reading Inner Excellence on the sidelines during a playoff game. Many took it as a sign of disinterest, but Brown later clarified it helps him reset mentally.
Drawing from his journalism studies in college, he’s spoken candidly about how narratives can be twisted by the media, saying, “I know all about propaganda.”
Off the field, questions about his relationship with quarterback Jalen Hurts have surfaced again. Brown acknowledged their occasional friction, describing them as “two alphas” who challenge each other in the pursuit of greatness.
While this competitive fire can fuel success, former Eagles veteran Brandon Graham has urged Brown to separate personal feelings from professional responsibilities to maintain team chemistry.
Ochocinco’s comments bring to light the psychological aspect of the game that’s often overlooked. It’s not always about raw numbers. For star players like Brown, it’s about feeling respected, valued, and utilized properly.
If the Eagles’ coaching staff can recalibrate the offense and involve Brown more consistently, they may be able to quiet critics and maintain their momentum. After all, even on a winning team, underutilizing your most dynamic weapon can lead to bigger problems down the road.
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