Eagles’ A.J. Brown Reads ‘Inner Excellence’ on Sideline, Sparks Conversation

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown was spotted reading a book on the sideline during the second half of Sunday’s game against the Green Bay Packers, sparking curiosity and questions about his choice of reading material. The book, titled “Inner Excellence” by Jim Murphy, is designed to help individuals achieve peak performance and personal growth.

Brown, who finished the game with just one catch for 10 yards on three targets, clarified that his reading was not a sign of frustration. “I wasn’t frustrated at all. I figured that’s what y’all probably thought,” Brown said postgame. “Why do you always think I be frustrated? Dang. I like to read.”

The wide receiver explained that he uses the book to refocus during games. “I use it to refocus and lock in despite what may transpire in the game, good or bad,” Brown wrote. “People tend to create controversy when they don’t know the truth.”

Brown’s reading habit comes amid a challenging week for the Eagles’ offense. Quarterback Jalen Hurts missed the past two games due to a concussion, and both Brown and tight end Dallas Goedert (back tightness) were limited in practice. The passing game struggled early, with Hurts completing only 6 of 13 passes for 39 yards before finding rhythm in the second half.

Despite the challenges, Brown remained optimistic about his health and performance. “I definitely feel like I’m turning the corner. I came out of the game healthy,” he said. The Eagles secured a victory, setting up a divisional-round playoff game next weekend.

Murphy, the author of “Inner Excellence,” has become a familiar figure around the Eagles’ facility. He was spotted at practice last week and attended Sunday’s game. Brown and Murphy have developed a friendship, with Brown praising the book’s impact on his mindset. “Hat’s off to Jim. He’s a great guy. The book is amazing,” Brown said. “For all who bought the book, you should check it out.”

As the Eagles prepare for their next playoff game, Brown plans to keep his copy of “Inner Excellence” close. “I’ve never seen him read [on the sideline]; I’ve seen the book in his hands,” Hurts said. “Everybody has a different thing and finds their flow in different ways. That’s how he chooses to do it.”