During the exhilarating NFC Wild Card playoff game on January 13, 2025, Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown was seen doing something unusual on the sidelines: he was reading a book. While his performance on the field included just one catch for 10 yards, it was his choice to dive into Jim Murphy’s self-help book, “Inner Excellence,” that earned him massive attention from fans and media alike. This unique approach to maintaining mental focus quickly went viral and has brought both curiosity and sales success to the book.
A.J. Brown’s Unique Practice Earns Viral Fame
A.J. Brown isn’t just known for his incredible talent on the field; he’s also made headlines for his original sideline habits. Reading a book during a playoff match is not something you see every day! But for Brown, it’s part of his strategy to stay focused, regardless of what’s happening in the game. Many fans and sports analysts found it intriguing to see a player so deeply engaged with a book, especially during such a high-stakes moment.
Support from Teammates and Coaching Staff
Brown’s sideline reading habit was recommended to him by a teammate, defensive tackle Moro Ojomo, who first handed him the book after a game back in September 2023. The book, which emphasizes mental clarity and performance, fits perfectly with Brown’s mindset about preparing mentally before a game. His teammates have embraced this unusual practice, showing their support despite the unconventionality of reading during such a crucial time in a playoff season.
The Book That Everyone is Talking About
Since Brown was seen reading “Inner Excellence” during the Eagles’ 22-10 victory over the Green Bay Packers, the book skyrocketed in sales ranking on Amazon. Before the game, the book was listed at a low position of 523,497, but after the match, it soared to the number one spot! Author Jim Murphy, who was taken by surprise at this sudden popularity, expressed joy over the unexpected boost in interest.
A.J. Brown’s Focus on Mental Preparation
Despite a quieter performance in terms of game statistics, A.J. Brown’s sideline reading highlights an important aspect of sports: mental preparation. Brown emphasizes how reading helps him refocus and clear his mind, even when his on-field performance doesn’t reflect his usual excellence. This dedication to keeping both his mind and body sharp is something many young athletes can take inspiration from.
| Player Name | Game Stats (Catch, Yards) | Book Title | Book Author |
|---|---|---|---|
| A.J. Brown | 1 Catch, 10 Yards | Inner Excellence | Jim Murphy |
Eyes on the Next Game
With the victory over the Packers, the Eagles now march toward their next challenge in the playoffs, facing off against either the Minnesota Vikings or the Los Angeles Rams. A.J. Brown will likely continue his sideline reading practices, making sure that his mental game is strong for what lies ahead. Fans will be eager to see if this unique approach will lead to even more dynamic performances in the upcoming games.
As the playoffs continue and interest in Brown’s sideline reading grows, not only does it spark conversations about sports strategies, but it also highlights the importance of maintaining a well-rounded mental preparation routine—a lesson that reaches beyond just athletes but resonates with everyone, young and old, striving for excellence in their daily lives.