Patriots reportedly targeting two star WRs as A.J. Brown alternatives

The New England Patriots didn't hesitate to pull the plug on Stefon Diggs.

Now, they have to find another proven veteran to pair with Drake Maye, with A.J. Brown as their reported primary target.

However, the Philadelphia Eagles are still adamant about keeping the troublemaking wide receiver, or at least not moving him at a discount, despite hearing him go on the record about his discomfort with the team.

That's why the Patriots are also discussing other alternatives. According to NFL insider Josina Anderson, Mike Vrabel's team has discussed trading for Chris Olave and signing Romeo Doubs and Christian Kirk. 

Patriots discussing Chris Olave and Romeo Doubs

"As talks and considerations continue on the Patriots' side and on the Eagles' side when it comes to their wide receiver questions and on the A.J. Brown front, some of the names I'm hearing, at least come up from the Patriots' discussion, whether it be Chris Olave (...) to Romeo Doubs and Christian Kirk," Anderson said. 

Then again, even if Olave and Doubs are big names and Kirk is a proven veteran, Anderson adds that the Patriots are still fixated on getting A.J. Brown reunited with Mike Vrabel.

"None of these names are a better fit," Anderson said. 

Even in a down year, Brown eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards. He'd be the primary pass catcher for a Patriots team that only had two players topping 600 receiving yards. 

Still, with the Eagles in no apparent rush to move him and things moving so quickly in free agency, they might have to pivot.