A.J. Brown’s slow start in Philadelphia and a cryptic social media post have sparked trade rumors, but the Eagles’ strong championship aspirations make a midseason move unlikely. Insiders say an offseason deal could be on the table, potentially bringing Brown into the orbit of the receiver-needy New England Patriots.
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Would Patriots pursue an A.J. Brown trade? Breer shares important context
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Key Takeaways:
- A.J. Brown’s production has dipped, leading to speculation about his future in Philadelphia.
- The Eagles remain focused on a Super Bowl pursuit, making an in-season trade improbable.
- Albert Breer suggests a trade might be feasible after the 2025 season.
- Mike Vrabel’s past experience with Brown highlights potential health concerns.
- New England’s lack of a top receiving target drives intrigue surrounding Brown’s status.
A.J. Brown’s Situation in Philadelphia
A.J. Brown has recorded just 19 receptions for 194 yards and one touchdown through five games, a notable drop from expectations for a star wide receiver. Fueling further speculation, Brown posted a cryptic social media message stating, “If you’re not welcomed, not listened to, quietly withdraw. Don’t make a scene. Shrug your shoulders and be on your way.” While he later clarified that the post was not primarily about his role on the team, it fueled whispers about possible discontent.
Philadelphia’s Championship Ambitions
Despite these signals, the Philadelphia Eagles appear firmly within a Super Bowl window. As Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer explains, that winning trajectory essentially dismisses any notion of trading one of the league’s top wideouts in the middle of a season. The Eagles have little incentive to weaken their offense while positioning themselves as contenders.
Albert Breer’s Perspective
Breer believes that, although an in-season trade is “very unlikely,” a move could be possible in the future—especially once the Eagles are poised to reshuffle their roster outside of a championship run. He points to the window after the 2025 season, suggesting the franchise would then have more options and time to find a suitable replacement if they chose to move Brown.
The Vrabel Connection
Brown’s path to Philadelphia began when the Tennessee Titans traded him in April 2022. A key factor was a knee issue that concerned certain people in the Titans’ front office—enough to spark disagreement with the coaching staff, then led by Mike Vrabel. Now as a top figure in New England, Vrabel could factor this past injury history into any proposal the Patriots might make for Brown. Although Vrabel admired Brown’s on-field talent, the same knee worries that previously deterred the Titans could convince him to pause before giving up substantial draft capital or offering a sizable contract.
Looking Ahead for the Patriots
The Patriots have a glaring need for a true No. 1 receiver, placing Brown squarely on their radar if he does become available. However, Vrabel’s firsthand knowledge of Brown’s injury situation may make New England less inclined to pay a steep price or provide a long-term pact. For now, any talk of a blockbuster move remains theoretical, as the Eagles are unlikely to part with Brown until at least after the 2025 season—if they ever do.
In the meantime, Brown continues to line up for Philadelphia, contributing to a roster that sees itself as a real championship contender. Whether the cryptic social media post proves a precursor to an eventual exit remains to be seen. However, Breer’s insight and Vrabel’s connection ensure that rumors linking Brown to New England, however distant, will continue to spark conversations.
