Philadelphia Eagle's A.J. Brown Finds Clarity in "Inner Excellence"
As the Philadelphia Eagles battle their way through the NFL season, wide receiver A.J. Brown has found an unlikely ally on the sidelines—a book titled "Inner Excellence" by Jim Murphy. For Brown, this book is more than just literature; it is an integral part of his pre-game routine and mental preparation.
A Playoff Game Ritual
During a pivotal playoff game against the Green Bay Packers, fans and analysts noticed Brown engrossed with "Inner Excellence." The Eagles secured a 22-10 victory, but Brown's stat line was modest: one catch for 10 yards. Despite his limited contributions on paper, Brown felt he made a significant impact on the field. "It didn't show on the stats, but I did a lot today for my teammates, blocking and stuff. So it was good," shared Brown.
This approach underscores Brown’s belief that football is as much a mental game as it is physical. He stresses the importance of maintaining mental clarity to enhance performance. "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," said Brown. His ritual includes reading and reflecting every drive, whether the preceding play was a touchdown or an incomplete pass.
Support From the Team
The wide receiver's habit of reading on the sidelines has not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Jordan Mailata, an Eagles captain, is supportive and encourages this practice. "He does that every game. It's a mindset. It's a mindset book," emphasized Mailata. He dismisses any distractions that media attention might cause, refocusing the narrative on Brown's commitment. "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!" he added.
More Than Just a Book
For Brown, "Inner Excellence" offers more than inspiration; it provides peace and a structured mental framework during games. He carries the book visibly, and its paperback cover is tattered and its pages full of highlights, serving as evidence of its significance. "It gives me a sense of peace. That's a book I bring every single game. My teammates call it a recipe," Brown commented. This personal journey with the book isn't a one-off; it has become an enduring narrative for the player across many games.
The philosophy encapsulated in "Inner Excellence" has resonated with Brown. He quotes, "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." This passage reveals why the book holds such a pivotal role for him, helping him manage external pressures and maintain focus.
A Bestseller on the Rise
As Brown continues to lean on "Inner Excellence" during the season, the book has seen a surge in popularity, reaching No. 1 bestseller status on Amazon. It appears Brown's endorsement has not only inspired teammates but has caught the attention of a broader audience, indicating the wide appeal of its teachings.
Currently managing a knee injury, Brown remains unwavering in his commitment to his mental regimen, believing in its essential role in his performance on and off the field. This unique pre-game ritual highlights an often-overlooked aspect of professional sports—the strength of the mind and its influence on achieving success.
With the Eagles eyeing further victories, Brown's practice of integrating mental discipline with physical preparedness might just be the quiet key to unlocking more triumphant moments on the horizon.