What happened: Mike Vrabel addressed the status of wide receiver A.J. Brown on Monday, noting the coaching staff faces an upcoming decision whether to activate the veteran pass-catcher. Brown remains listed as inactive following an extended absence.

Why it matters: New England remains in postseason contention at 5-3, holding the AFC's No. 7 seed after an intradivision road victory. Reinserting Brown into the lineup would provide an established perimeter target to bolster offensive efficiency down the stretch.

What to watch: New England continues preparations for Sunday's game against Green Bay. Practice participation throughout the week will determine Brown's game-day availability.