"The Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots have not reached an agreement regarding a potential trade for wide receiver A.J. Brown."
The primary point of contention remains the draft pick compensation sought by the Eagles.
Trade Negotiations
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that the two teams are "not particularly close" to a deal. The Eagles are reportedly seeking a first-round draft pick in 2027. The Patriots have been unwilling to offer that pick. A 2028 first-round pick has been discussed as a potential compromise but has not been agreed upon.
The June 1 date is significant for a potential trade. A post-June 1 trade allows the Eagles to split the remaining dead money across two seasons, resulting in a 2026 cap savings of $1.55 million and $21.8 million in dead money. A trade can become official on June 2.
Multiple reports indicate the Eagles are likely to receive a first-round pick, possibly in 2028, from the New England Patriots. Reports also indicate Brown has deactivated his Twitter account.
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported that a deal involving a 2028 first-round pick was discussed with a team other than the Patriots months ago. Some reluctance remains among Patriots regarding top pick compensation.
Player Reactions
Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts stated that his relationship with Brown is "really good" and that "nothing's changed." Running back Saquon Barkley commented, "This is a business... the show goes on," indicating the team is focused on preparation regardless of trade rumors.
Team Preparations
The Eagles have taken steps to prepare for Brown's departure. They drafted wide receiver Makai Lemon, traded for Dontayvion Wicks, and signed free agents Hollywood Brown and Elijah Moore in free agency. Rookie tight end Eli Stowers has been compared to former NFL tight end Jared Cook. Quarterback Jalen Hurts is adapting to new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion's scheme, which includes more snaps under center.
Background
Brown has averaged 1,258.5 receiving yards per season over the past four years. Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman has maintained patience in negotiations, allowing time for other potential suitors to emerge.
Additional NFL Notes
- The Dallas Cowboys will face eight quarterbacks with above-average passer ratings in the 2026 season.
- The Washington Commanders have improved roster depth after injuries impacted their 2025 performance.
- The New York Giants worked out veteran wide receivers Odell Beckham Jr., Braxton Berrios, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Anthony Miller.