Patriots' latest move might push them closer to A.J. Brown

For months, the New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles have been tied to a league-altering transaction.

Disgruntled wide receiver A.J. Brown is more than likely to be dealt, and Foxborough sounds like his next destination.

However, the Eagles must wait until June 1 to move him to lessen the financial burden of a trade, so they can't officially seal the deal yet.

That's why, in the meantime, the Patriots will continue to manage their books, possibly to accommodate Brown's big salary. As ESPN's Mike Reiss reported, they just reworked Mike Onwenu's contract.

The Patriots clear more cap space with potential A.J. Brown trade looming

“Contract note: Patriots guard Mike Onwenu, who had no guaranteed money remaining in the final year of his 3-year, $57 million pact, has signed a revised deal for 2026. His cap charge is reduced by $7.5 million. He gets $10 million in guarantees/bonuses,” Reiss shared on his X account.

Of course, that additional cap space can come in handy if the Patriots opt to absorb Brown's salary.

According to multiple reports, the Patriots and Eagles have discussed a potential trade framework.

That said, even if the Patriots aren't willing to meet the Eagles' lofty asking price, it's hard to envision a scenario in which Brown doesn't arrive in Foxborough.

The Eagles added three new wide receivers to their roster this offseason, and Brown's relationship with head coach Mike Vrabel is another major factor to consider.

For now, both sides just have to stay patient, but barring a shocking turn of events, Brown should be a Patriot by Week 1.