During an exciting Wild Card playoff game on January 13, 2025, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown surprised fans and commentators alike by reading a book titled “Inner Excellence” while sitting on the sidelines. This unusual sight occurred during the Eagles’ victory over the Green Bay Packers, where they won 22-10, marking an important step in their playoff journey.
A.J. Brown explains why he was reading a book during Eagles’ playoff game
You might be wondering why A.J. Brown, a professional football player on the brink of a playoff victory, would choose to read a book instead of cheering on his teammates. Well, A.J. told reporters that reading helps him to refocus his mind and find a sense of calm, even in the stressful environment of a football game. He shared that reading has become part of his routine during games, making it easier for him to stay grounded amidst the thrilling chaos of the field.
What book was A.J. Brown reading?
The book A.J. was immersed in is called “Inner Excellence” by author Jim Murphy. This self-help book focuses on mental training for peak performance, encouraging readers to harness their inner strengths. A.J. mentioned that he often reads during each drive, no matter how many catches or yards he has. While some may think he was frustrated with his limited performance—only catching one pass for 10 yards—A.J. clarified that this wasn’t the case. Instead, he was simply using reading as a tool to maintain focus.
Playoff performance and team spirit
- The Eagles displayed strong teamwork and skill, with a solid performance from their offensive line throughout the game.
- Quarterback Jalen Hurts observed A.J. reading and communicated that this practice is just one of many unique approaches players take to maintain their concentration.
- Despite facing a tough opponent in the Packers, the Eagles successfully moved on to the next playoff round, showcasing their determination and talent.
Tom Brady’s debut as a broadcaster
Aside from A.J. Brown’s reading antics, the game also marked NFL legend Tom Brady’s first time in the broadcast booth. He had some hiccups at first, misidentifying players early in the game, yet he quickly found his footing and offered valuable insights. Brady’s comments on the Eagles’ strategies added a layer of excitement for the viewers tuning in at home.
Fan reactions to A.J. Brown’s sideline moment
Fans of the Eagles were buzzing about A.J.’s unique sideline reading habit. Many took to social media to express their support and appreciation for his refreshing approach to handling game pressure. It’s not every day you see a player calmly reading between plays! This moment humanized him, making him more relatable to fans, showing that even top athletes have their own strategies to stay focused.
Looking ahead: What’s next for the Eagles?
With their playoff journey still going, A.J. Brown’s sideline reading has set a new trend for both players and fans. The Eagles aim for greater success in the playoffs, and with Brown’s ability to stay calm and focused, fans can look forward to more memorable moments. Will we see him reading more books during future games? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the Eagles’ sideline will always be an interesting place to watch!
| Player | Catches | Yards |
|---|---|---|
| A.J. Brown | 1 | 10 |
| Other Eagles Players | Varied | Varied |
