Part of the interior browning is normal for this species. Since it is in partial shade, that may be why it is somewhat sparse in the interior. 

Have you been monitoring its watering needs? Maryland has been in sustained drought since 2024 due to insufficient rain, and evergreen trees tend to be slower than deciduous trees in showing drought stress symptoms. You can prune out the dead or dying branches and check the soil about 6 inches below any mulch to determine if the tree needs water. If the soil is dry, water thoroughly, letting the water soak into the entire root zone. Continue to check for soil moisture until the ground freezes to help protect the roots over the winter.

We can't see in the photo but is the tree planted too deeply or mulched too high? This can cause girdling roots that will cut off nutrient flow to the upper part of the plant. Trees should have a flare at the base where the trunk comes straight down and flares as the roots meet the soil. If it isn't showing one, you can carefully remove the mulch and soil until you expose the flare and look for any girdling roots. 

Feel free to send us back photos if you have questions. 

Emily