Eagles GM explains why team did not trade WR A.J. Brown

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown was viewed by some as a player to watch leading up to Tuesday's NFL trade deadline, but the team never showed a willingness to deal him. General manager Howie Roseman says there several reasons for that.

The Eagles were buyers ahead of the trade deadline, which is not a shock given that they are 6-2, in control in the NFC East and looking to make another Super Bowl run. They acquired cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Michael Carter II in deals with the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets, respectively. Philadelphia then pulled off another big move by landing talented pass-rusher Jaelan Phillips in a trade with the Miami Dolphins.

What the Eagles did not do, was shop Brown or any of their other star players.

GM Howie Roseman praises A.J. Brown

After the trade deadline passed at 4 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Roseman met with the media. He was asked whether the Eagles considered trading Brown, and he had a strong response.

"I'd like to keep this about the guys we acquired, but with him, I think when you're trying to be a great team, it's hard to trade great players. A.J. Brown's a great player," Roseman said. "He wears the 'C' for a reason. He's an important part of this team, of this organization. He cares about winning. He cares about his teammates.

"I think that when you're a team like ours that's looking forward to an opportunity to compete for a championship, you just don't get rid of guys like that. So, I feel very lucky to have him on our team and excited about the second half of the season with him."