Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley recently revealed new details about his teammate and noted New England Patriots supporter AJ Brown. This disclosure follows widespread online discussion after Brown shared a playful wink during an interview with Patriots great Julian Edelman earlier this week, fueling speculation about Brown’s connection to the Patriots.
AJ Brown’s Draft Night History and Connection to Patriots Legends
Originally, AJ Brown was left disappointed when the New England Patriots selected wide receiver N’Keal Harry in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft instead of him. Brown was ultimately drafted by the Tennessee Titans. His affinity for the Patriots was further underscored in 2025 when Julian Edelman gifted Brown a signed Patriots jersey, which Brown received with great enthusiasm. Throughout a recent podcast appearance alongside hosts Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski, Brown appeared at ease, neither confirming nor denying the team’s fandom rumors directly.
Barkley Confirms Brown’s Longtime Patriots Fandom
Clarifying the situation for ESPN on Friday, Barkley firmly stated that Brown has always been a devoted Patriots fan. He said,
“He is a huge Patriots fan… He’s always been a big Patriots fan… Before Dallas, Tom Brady he was throwing him the ball… He was like a kid in a candy store. That wink is just all fun and games, but I will give the inside scoop that AJ Brown is a big Patriots fan.” ?Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles running back
This comment highlights Brown’s longstanding admiration for the Patriots, dating back to the era when Tom Brady was quarterback, and reflects the genuine excitement Brown feels around the organization’s legacy.
AJ Brown’s Recent Performance and Contract Commitment with the Eagles
Last season, Brown demonstrated his skills at a high level with the Philadelphia Eagles, amassing 78 receptions for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns. Despite a slow start, he ended the season strong, posting several games with over 100 receiving yards. Brown’s current contract extends through the 2029 season, following a lucrative three-year, $96 million extension signed in April 2024. While the Eagles clearly see Brown as a core part of their offensive plans, he has publicly expressed frustration at times regarding the team’s offensive strategies.
Trade Speculation and Potential Fit with the New England Patriots
Though Barkley’s remarks confirm Brown’s fandom, they do not verify any immediate plans for Brown to join the Patriots roster. Brown remains under contract with Philadelphia, and while a trade remains a theoretical possibility, no concrete developments have surfaced at present. Given the Patriots’ need for an additional dynamic wide receiver, Brown represents a tantalizing option. In the 2023 season, Stefon Diggs emerged as a primary playmaker for New England, recording 1,013 yards and four touchdowns, supported by rising receivers Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins. Boutte contributed 33 catches for 551 yards and six touchdowns, while Hollins posted 46 catches for 550 yards and two touchdowns.
Anticipation Builds as the Offseason Approaches
The potential acquisition of AJ Brown by the Patriots is expected to be a major storyline during the upcoming offseason, especially as the free agency period intensifies. Fans of New England eagerly await any developments, hoping the team will bolster its receiving corps with a player of Brown’s caliber. For now, Brown’s true allegiance and possible future movements remain a captivating topic among analysts and supporters alike, as the Patriots aim to enhance their offensive firepower moving forward.
.@saquon gives us the inside scoop that A.J. Brown has ALWAYS been a Patriots fan 🤣 pic.twitter.com/cHCU5f4LpP
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) February 20, 2026
