How one potential A.J. Brown trade could get even more interesting

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown is a player who is viewed as a prime trade candidate this offseason, and things could get even more interesting than expected if he is sent to one particular team.

There have been numerous reports in recent weeks that Brown is likely to be traded at some point prior to the start of the 2026 season. The New England Patriots are considered by many to be most logical suitor, which might lead to an uncomfortable dynamic during training camp.

On Sunday, ESPN's Mike Reiss reported that Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and Eagles coach Nick Sirianni have had "preliminary discussions" about holding joint practices together during training camp. The two teams will face one another during the preseason.

A.J. Brown may have an awkward encounter

Brown was openly frustrated with the Eagles throughout the 2025 season. The All-Pro wideout has had a less prominent role in Philadelphia's offense since the team signed star running back Saquon Barkley, and Brown has not always handled that well. Even when the Eagles have won, Brown has seemed irritated that he has to play in a run-heavy scheme.

Though the Eagles may want to move on from Brown for financial reasons, all signs point to Brown essentially trying to force his way out of Philadelphia. If he were to play a direct role in the Eagles trading him to New England, a joint practice between the two teams might be a bit uncomfortable, at best.

Timing is everything

The Eagles would save significant money against the salary cap if they were to trade Brown after June 1. Brown's contract would carry a dead salary cap hit of nearly $40M if the Eagles were to trade him prior to June 1. That number drops to around $20M after June 1, which is why Philadelphia is likely to wait.

Brown played under Vrabel when Vrabel was the head coach of the Tennessee Titans. The two seem to have maintained a close relationship, and Brown has also spoken about how he grew up a Patriots fan. Those are among the reasons the Patriots are considered the strongest suitor for Brown.

Though his production has dipped in recent years, Brown still had 78 catches for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns last season. He will turn 29 in June, so you could make the argument that he remains in his prime. The opportunity to reunite with his former coach while catching passes from MVP candidate Drake Maye would likely rejuvenate Brown if he were to wind up in New England.