Why does AJ Brown wear a red armband? The heartfelt reason behind the Eagles star’s unique accessory

Dec 21, 2025 - 04:45

It’s easy to spot A.J. Brown.

The Philadelphia Eagles are typically associated with dark green, white and black, and sometimes a “Kelly Green” throwback.

Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) runs after a catch during the Philadelphia Eagles versus Washington Commanders — Brown is one of the best wide receivers in the entire league

But lately, fans might notice a striking pop of bright red on the field.

A.J. Brown has long been one of the NFL’s premier receivers and a primary target for Jalen Hurts. On game days, he often adds a red armband or other vivid accessories that make him even more noticeable on the field.

So why the splash of red? Here’s the heartwarming reason behind the Eagles star’s eye-catching game-day gear.

Why does A.J. Brown wear red?

Brown told reporters that he chooses bold, distinctive colors so his daughter can easily spot him while watching games on TV.

This isn’t the first time Brown has added a pop of color to his uniform. He has a history of bold on-field colors, having rocked neon green and pink cleats during the 2023 season.

In September 2023, Brown had to switch out of his neon green cleats after the team’s equipment manager warned he “had to take them off or they were going to pull me out of the game,” according to ESPN.

He noted at the time that the bright colors help his daughter spot him more easily on the field.

“She got mad at me. ‘Why did I change the cleats?'” Brown said.

“She’ll have to be OK. I’m not trying to come out [of the game].”

At the time, Brown slammed the NFL’s 2023 cleat policies, calling the rules and fines “ridiculous.”

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 23: A.J. Brown #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles scores a touchdown in the first quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on November 23, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) — It’s easy to spot Brown on the field

A.J. Brown #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts after the game against the Los Angeles Rams — Brown has rocked a red armband this year

“Yeah, that rule sucks,” Brown said.

“I really tried to bend the rules a little bit, but I think all players should just wear whatever they want to wear. They’re not going to be able to fine everybody in the league.

“So I think we should start that movement as players.”

Brown has returned to his signature look, pairing vibrant cleats with the red armband that has become his trademark.

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