The Philadelphia Eagles are 4-0, nevertheless it seems star large receiver A.J. Brown is not joyful. His frustration spilled into public view after Week 4’s win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and now individuals are speaking about potential trades involving one of many league’s greatest wideouts.
Brown posted a biblical quote on social media after the sport: “In case you’re not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Do not make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be in your approach.” This got here after he caught simply two passes for seven yards on 9 targets towards the Buccaneers. He later mentioned the tweet wasn’t aimed toward anybody particular, however the frustration is obvious.
Philadelphia’s run-heavy method has restricted his alternatives, and Brown has clarified that he needs the ball extra. By 4 video games in 2025, Brown has simply 14 catches for 151 yards and one landing. Final 12 months, after 4 video games? He had 21 catches for 408 yards and three scores.
With Brown’s manufacturing down and frustration rising, commerce hypothesis has targeted on one crew: the New England Patriots.
Patriots commerce proposal for Eagles’ A.J. Brown
Whereas this deal is solely hypothetical, here is a commerce bundle that may make sense for either side. The Patriots would ship their 2026 first-round choose, a 2026 fifth-round choose, and large receiver DeMario Douglas to Philadelphia in trade for Brown.
Why the Eagles would do it: Philadelphia faces a troublesome selection. Brown clearly needs extra targets, however their run-heavy offense is not altering. Preserve him sad and danger a much bigger distraction, or transfer him now whereas his worth remains to be excessive. Buying and selling him is not low-cost. They’d eat about $31.6 million in lifeless cap house due to his contract construction. However getting a first-round choose, a fifth-rounder, and a younger alternative receiver in Douglas softens the blow. Extra importantly, it removes a possible drawback earlier than it explodes. The Eagles are 4-0 and constructed to win now. They can not afford locker room points.
Why the Patriots would do it: New England wants a high receiver for Drake Maye, and Brown is precisely that. Head coach Mike Vrabel has a historical past with Brown from their time collectively in Tennessee, so there’s already belief and familiarity there. Sure, giving up a first-round choose, a fifth-rounder, and Douglas is dear. However you are getting a 28-year-old Professional Bowl receiver locked in by way of 2029. That is a uncommon alternative to land a confirmed star who might help your younger quarterback develop.
Brown signed a three-year, $96 million extension in April 2024. That extension retains him below contract by way of 2029. He is one of many highest-paid receivers within the league, however he ranks round seventh by way of annual wage. For a participant of his caliber, that is cheap worth.
Can This Eagles Commerce Occur?
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler says a midseason commerce is not anticipated. NFL executives suppose Philadelphia would possibly take heed to provides within the 2026 offseason as an alternative. The Eagles are undefeated, so there is no rush to make strikes. However if Brown stays sad, that might change.
The commerce deadline is November 4, roughly a month away. The Patriots are 2-2 and need assistance at receiver. Including Brown might flip their season round. For Philadelphia, buying and selling Brown now means getting good worth earlier than issues get messier.
Whether or not it occurs earlier than the deadline or subsequent offseason, this commerce is smart. Brown will get to play for a coach who is aware of him. The Patriots get a high receiver for his or her younger quarterback. Philadelphia will get draft picks and avoids drama within the locker room. All sides win.