During a big playoff game on January 13, 2025, A.J. Brown, a talented wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, caught the attention of sports fans everywhere. Instead of just focusing on the game, he was spotted reading a book called “Inner Excellence” on the sidelines. This unique moment not only showcased his love for reading but also helped him maintain his cool during a challenging match against the Green Bay Packers.
In this thrilling game, the Eagles triumphed over the Packers with a score of 22-10, securing their place in the playoffs. However, despite the team’s victory, A.J. Brown had a quiet day on the field, making only one catch for 10 yards. His actions brought a wave of curiosity that had people talking about the book he was reading, highlighting the impact athletes can have outside of just their athletic performance.
A.J. Brown’s Unusual Game Day Ritual
A.J. Brown’s story begins with a simple recommendation from his teammate, Moro Ojomo. Ojomo suggested he read “Inner Excellence,” a self-help book focused on improving mental focus and peace. Brown embraced this advice, and since then, he has made it a habit to bring the book to every game. This practice is not just about reading; it serves as a way for him to refocus and prepare mentally for the challenges ahead, even when the game does not go as planned.
Fans and Teammates React
A.J. Brown’s sideline reading quickly turned into a sensation on social media. Many fans praised him for promoting reading and mental well-being in such a public way. Teammate Jordan Mailata expressed admiration for Brown’s calm demeanor during a game that saw him not at his best, saying, “That’s A.J. Brown — he can do whatever the hell he wants.” This sense of confidence and composure might just be part of what makes him a valuable player on and off the field.
The Rise of “Inner Excellence” on Amazon
After this memorable moment on the sideline, something unexpected happened. The book “Inner Excellence,” which was barely known before, skyrocketed to the top of Amazon’s best-seller list. Just days before the game, it ranked an astonishingly low 523,497th. Now, the book is not only a hit among fans but also received glowing reviews, boasting a 4.7 out of 5-star rating. Author Jim Murphy, who previously enjoyed a modest following, was pleasantly surprised by the rapid surge in popularity.
Eagles’ Strong Defense Carries the Day
While A.J. Brown’s sideline routine made headlines, it was the Eagles’ strong defense that truly led the team to victory. The defense forced multiple turnovers, which played a crucial role in the game outcome. Coach Nick Sirianni acknowledged that while the offense has room for improvement, their defensive power is what secured their advancement in the playoffs. The Eagles are now set to face the winner of the matchup between the Minnesota Vikings and the Los Angeles Rams in the next round.
A.J. Brown’s Influence Beyond the Field
This experience emphasizes not just Brown’s unique approach to handling pressure but also highlights how athletes like him can influence others positively. By reading during a game, Brown has sparked discussions about mental wellness and the importance of focus, showing that there is so much more to being an athlete than the numbers on the scoreboard. The number of fans picking up “Inner Excellence” shows how strongly players can impact consumer behavior and inspire others to prioritize their mental health.
| Book Title | Amazon Ranking Before Game | Amazon Ranking After Game |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Excellence | 523,497th | #1 |
As the Eagles continue their playoff journey, A.J. Brown’s sideline story is a reminder that sometimes a great mindset can be the key to victory, both on and off the field.