Failed A.J. Brown replacement could be dealt by Titans at trade deadline

As the Oct. 31 trade deadline approaches, the 2-4 Titans fit the mold of potential sellers. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Tennessee has received calls for Burks. (On Monday, Tennessee traded safety Kevin Byard to the Eagles for safety Terrell Edmunds and 2024 fifth- and sixth-round selections, per ESPN.)

Burks, 23, was selected with the 2022 first-round selection the Titans acquired when they traded Brown to the Eagles. Since then, the Arkansas product has failed to solidify himself as a viable NFL wideout, let alone fill Brown's shoes as the team's go-to target.  

Battling injuries and uneven quarterback play, Burks has caught just 39 passes for 543 yards and one touchdown over his 14-game career. In comparison, Brown has amassed two more receptions, 158 more yards and two more touchdown receptions over his past five games than Burks has compiled over his entire Titans tenure. 

Burks has missed the past three games with a knee injury. When available this season, he has failed to haul in more than three receptions in a game. While his age and draft stock will warrant trade interest, it's apparent he's not the player to replace Brown. 

Emulating Brown's brilliance would be nearly impossible for Burks. Yet, at this rate, Burks settling in as a No. 2 or No. 3 option in the passing game would be considered a win for the Titans. If Tennessee doesn't believe that's in the cards, it should seriously shop him. 

While Burks would fail to return a haul on par with his original draft compensation, the Titans could benefit from additional draft capital as they appear on the verge of a rebuild.