Philadelphia Eagles’ A.J. Brown Finds Peace in "Inner Excellence"
Philadelphia Eagles' wide receiver, A.J. Brown, has attracted attention not just for his performance on the field but also for his unique approach to mental preparation. Brown has been spotted on the sidelines with "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy, a book that has become integral to his game day ritual. The paperback, admittedly tattered and highlighted, talks volumes not just in content but in Brown's dedication to its teachings.
The book, which delves into mental strength and personal growth, has struck a chord with Brown. Even during high-stakes games, such as the Eagles’ playoff face-off against the Green Bay Packers, Brown was seen deep in its pages. Though the game ended in a decisive 22-10 victory for the Eagles, Brown's on-field contribution was modest, with only one 10-yard catch to his name. Yet, Brown emphasized the unseen elements he brought to the game, stating, "It didn't show on the stats, but I did a lot today for my teammates, blocking and stuff. So it was good."
Brown's actions and mindset encapsulate the book's teachings. "Inner Excellence" has clearly had a profound impact on him, becoming a staple for every game. His commitment to maintaining mental clarity and preparedness is evident, with Brown noting, "It gives me a sense of peace. That's a book I bring every single game. My teammates call it a recipe." This confession came after Brown was, for the first time, caught on camera reading during the Green Bay game—a moment he admitted had happened many times before.
Jordan Mailata, an Eagles captain, lends his support to Brown's reading habits. Mailata downplays any media sensation surrounding the act, emphasizing instead Brown’s consistency. "He does that every game. It's a mindset. It's a mindset book," Mailata explains, stressing that the act is a regular practice. "There's nothing else to report. Now we're talking about him reading a book on the sidelines. He's been doing it all year. Let's not start drama!"
The mental game is as crucial as the physical one for professional athletes, and Brown understands this. "It's a mental game, a lot of mental parts about it, and what's for me, the game is mental," he said, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong mental framework. "I physically believe I can do anything and everything. But I gotta make sure my mental's good. It's something like how I refresh every drive regardless of if I score a touchdown or drop a pass."
The book has reached No. 1 bestseller status on Amazon, perhaps owing to high-profile endorsements like Brown's. Despite battling a knee injury, Brown remains focused on what "Inner Excellence" teaches: maintaining a clear mind and taking risks with humility. "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," he shared, revealing a glimpse into the wisdom that fuels his performance.
Brown’s reliance on the book signals a deeper commitment to personal and professional growth, reflecting a broader trend among athletes who seek psychological advantages to complement their physical prowess. This nuanced approach not only enriches their game but also serves as a reminder of the power of mindset in high-pressure environments.
In an era where athletic performance is scrutinized to the minutest detail, Brown’s recipe for success underscores the value of mental excellence. As he continues to contribute to the Eagles, whether through key plays or supporting his teammates, Brown’s ritual offers an intriguing lens through which to view sportsmanship and personal development.