A.J. Brown Finds Inner Peace Through "Inner Excellence"
In the world of professional sports, where every motion is scrutinized and every misstep analyzed, finding a modicum of peace can be a challenge. For Philadelphia Eagles' wide receiver A.J. Brown, solace comes from an unusual source: a book titled "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy. This book has become an integral part of Brown’s routine, to the point where the paperback is now a well-loved but physically worn tome, marked with highlights and reflective notes.
During a pivotal playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, Brown was spotted indulging in this habit on the sidelines. While his on-field statistics for the game may have been modest—recording just one catch for 10 yards—his role was undeniably impactful. The Eagles surged to victory with a 22-10 scoreline, a testament to collective effort, which Brown was a vital part of, even if not obvious on the stat sheet.
"It didn't show on the stats, but I did a lot today for my teammates, blocking and stuff. So it was good," Brown reflected, displaying a clear-headed understanding of his contribution beyond measurable metrics. Brown, who is currently navigating a knee injury, showed that being a team player often transcends tangible accomplishments. His resolve and perspective come, in part, from the literary guidance of "Inner Excellence."
An Unwavering Routine
Brown’s affinity for the book isn’t a one-off endeavor or an emerging trend. Eagles captain Jordan Mailata emphasized this consistency within Brown’s habits, stating, "He does that every game. It's a mindset. It's a mindset book." Brown’s dedication to the teachings of Murphy isn’t perceived as eccentric within the team; rather, it's a respected part of his preparation and mental fortitude before each clash on the gridiron.
For Brown, the book functions as much more than just a pre-game ritual. In his own words, "It gives me a sense of peace. That's a book I bring every single game. My teammates call it a recipe." This recipe is rooted in a clear-minded approach reinforced by the book’s themes. The text outlines a philosophy where clarity of mind and humility are paramount. As Brown elaborates, "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."
Beyond the Scoreboard
While the spectacle of seeing a professional athlete engrossed in a book on the sidelines might seem unusual, Brown’s reading habits have gained attention but not controversy. Mailata, in fact, cautions against building it into a dramatic narrative, noting, "He does it every game. ...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 mindset that Brown has cultivated is reflective of the mental rigors of professional sports. On the field, a player might face a relentless barrage of both physical challenges and mental hurdles. Off the field, maintaining mental well-being is equally demanding. Brown captures this essence eloquently: "It's a mental game, a lot of mental parts about it, and what's for me, the game is mental. 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."
Brown's journey through the NFL's highs and lows is augmented by the quiet, consistent influence of "Inner Excellence." As sports fans and analysts continue to dissect every facet of the game, it’s refreshing to witness an athlete who thrives not only on training camps and playbooks but also on the introspective and philosophical. Brown’s approach underscores the fact that true excellence often begins in the mind, long before making its way to the field.
As the Eagles continue to soar, A.J. Brown's unique approach reminds us that in football, as in life, mental clarity can be as crucial as physical prowess. His story resonates with anyone striving for balance and depth within their hectic lives, proving once again that sometimes, the greatest lessons come from the pages of a well-loved book.