A.J. Brown reveals 'why it’s frustrating at times' to be with Eagles

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown continues to be the subject of interesting rumors regarding his future ahead of the upcoming NFL trade deadline, which will arrive at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

The Eagles reportedly don't plan to make Brown available this fall amid their Super Bowl title defense. During a recent chat with Brooks Kubena of The Athletic, Brown addressed his mindset and touched upon what motivates him as a player. 

A.J. Brown shares why "it’s frustrating at times" to be with Eagles

"I know everybody’s counting on me — that’s my thrill," Brown explained. "And then I come through. That makes me proud of myself. And I’m doing it over and over again. And then I got another opportunity a couple of plays later. Third down. Everybody knows the ball’s coming to me. I love that feeling. Like, it’s a rush. I don’t do drugs, but that has to be what drugs feels like. And I’m getting that dopamine. And I’m coming through for my team again."  

Earlier in October, Dianna Russini of The Athletic reported that Brown and fellow Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith were frustrated with their roles in the offense and wanted "more touchdowns." That was before they tallied a combined 13 receptions for 304 yards and three scores in Philadelphia's 28-22 win at the Minnesota Vikings on Oct. 19. 

Brown more recently missed the Eagles' 38-20 victory over the New York Giants that improved Philadelphia to 6-2 this past Sunday because of a hamstring injury.

"...That’s where the excitement comes from," Brown continued. "And that’s why it’s frustrating at times. And maybe people really misunderstand me as a player, but those feelings — that’s what I want. You may see a little frustration. It’s because I really want to contribute. I really want to help this team win. But if I’m not getting the ball, obviously, it’s not as fun."

A.J. Brown reveals "main goal" ahead of trade deadline

The Eagles are in their bye and, thus, won't play again before all trades must be completed this season. Brown theoretically could've used Wednesday's piece to make it clear he would embrace a fresh start elsewhere, but he stopped short of confirming he wants to be traded. 

"Obviously, I want to win," Brown added while speaking with Kubena. "That’s the main goal. But I want to help. I want to do my thing as well. And so it’s a little toll here and there sometimes. But I think that’s where the misunderstanding comes from, from everyone out there. But to be honest, I could really care less. This got me here. You know? And me playing this way, me having that drive, me having that mindset — it’s going to keep me here."

On Oct. 25, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Eagles were "not looking to trade" Brown. That's all well and good, but it remains fair to wonder if an offseason divorce involving the two sides is the inevitable conclusion to this saga.