A.J. Brown's Focus on Inner Excellence: How a Book Shapes His Mental Game
A.J. Brown, wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, has sparked curiosity among fans and media alike with his sideline reading habits during games. As cameras caught him flipping through a book during crucial moments of the 2025 NFL Wild Card game, it raised questions about his approach to staying focused and grounded during high-stakes situations. While some initially thought it was a statement about his role or frustrations in the game, Brown's choice to read was far more intentional — a part of his journey to enhance his mental strength through a book titled Inner Excellence: Train Your Mind for Extraordinary Performance and the Best Possible Life by Jim Murphy.
A.J. Brown has consistently brought this book with him to every game. The focus of his reading isn’t casual entertainment, but rather a series of passages that help him realign his mindset and find peace amid the chaos of the football field. Brown uses the book’s lessons to re-center himself after each drive, seeking mental stimulation that he believes is as crucial to his performance as physical training. In his own words, it’s about training his brain, not just his body. The book has a profound impact on him, especially when navigating the recurring mental challenges athletes face throughout their careers.
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Rather than viewing the book as a distraction or a sign of disrespect, Brown’s head coach, Nick Sirianni, expressed full support for his player’s decision. Sirianni even defended Brown’s actions, highlighting the importance of mental fortitude in the game. As Brown himself put it, “I can lift weights all day, but that doesn’t do anything for me if my mental isn’t correct.” For him, reading during the game isn’t a sign of weakness or a lack of focus — it’s part of his preparation to maintain clarity in the midst of the game’s intensity.
The book’s message resonates deeply with Brown, especially in how it relates to the mental side of football. Murphy’s philosophy encourages athletes to embrace the vulnerability of the sport and train their minds to handle the pressure. The idea is that when you can let go of attachment to the outcome and simply focus on playing, you create a positive energy that resets your nervous system. This practice helps athletes like Brown tap into their full potential, not just physically but also mentally.
A.J. Brown’s relationship with the book and its author, Jim Murphy, has blossomed into a friendship. They share a common understanding of the mental challenges athletes face, and Murphy has expressed his admiration for Brown’s commitment to the journey of inner excellence. This partnership has taken shape both on and off the field, with Murphy even attending games to show his support for Brown. Their connection is a reminder of how mental training, often overlooked in physical sports, is just as vital to an athlete’s success.
As the Eagles continue their playoff run, don’t be surprised if A.J. Brown is seen reading Inner Excellence on the sidelines once again. It’s more than just a book — it’s part of his formula for mental clarity, focus, and peak performance. Brown’s story serves as a testament to the importance of nurturing inner strength, both on and off the field.
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