A.J. Brown's Unconventional Sideline Strategy: Embracing the Power of "Inner Excellence"
Every athlete has their unique pre-game rituals and sideline behaviors that help them maintain focus and composure amidst the chaos of competition. For Philadelphia Eagles' star wide receiver A.J. Brown, his isn't running routes or dissecting playbooks during downtime. It's something profoundly different—a tattered, highlighted copy of "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy that accompanies him on game day.
The book, pivotal in Brown's routine, was most recently spotted with him during a significant playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers. The Eagles' 22-10 win might have been decisive on the field, but it was Brown's sideline habits that caught everyone's attention. Although his on-the-stat-sheet contribution was minimal—recording a single catch for 10 yards—he attributes much of his value to blocking and supporting his teammates.
Brown shares that "Inner Excellence" offers him "a sense of peace," noting, "That's a book I bring every single game. My teammates call it a recipe." This ritual isn't new, although Brown acknowledges, "That's the first time I've heard y'all got me on camera. That's not the first game. It's got a lot of points in there." His insistence on reading the book consistently is rooted in its content, which provides mental clarity and focus, vital for his performance.
The wide receiver explains, "It didn't show on the stats, but I did a lot today for my teammates, blocking and stuff. So it was good." This mindset underscores Brown's philosophy that football is as much a mental game as it is physical. "I physically believe I can do anything and everything," he states, "But I gotta make sure my mental's good." This sentiment is echoed through advice from the book, emphasizing the importance of a clear mind and the willingness to take risks without fear of embarrassment.
Fellow teammate and Eagles captain Jordan Mailata supports Brown's reading habit, calling it "a mindset book." He asserts, "He does that every game. It's a mindset. It's a mindset book," further adding, "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!" Mailata's remarks dismiss any notion that Brown's reading is anything but beneficial, reinforcing its normalcy within the team dynamic.
Brown's reliance on "Inner Excellence" isn't just a quirky habit; it's a strategic tool that bolsters his performance. The book's rise to No. 1 bestseller status on Amazon suggests that its message resonates beyond just Brown's circle, providing insights into how an athlete at the top of his game maintains mental equilibrium—even when not in play.
Currently dealing with a knee injury, Brown's ability to stay mentally sharp is perhaps more critical than ever. The book's insights into maintaining a clear conscience and focusing on what truly matters are vital lessons that Brown applies on and off the field. "If you're humble, you can't be embarrassed," he quotes, highlighting the importance of humility in his approach.
This unique blend of mental preparation and physical prowess distinguishes A.J. Brown not just as a player, but as a professional steeped in the ethos of continuous self-improvement. His story of sideline reading challenges traditional perceptions of professional athletes, illustrating how inner excellence complements physical excellence in the pursuit of greatness.