Saquon Barkley sparked new discussion about AJ Brown‘s future on Friday during an interview, bringing fresh attention to the wide receiver’s uncertain status as the 2026 NFL offseason approaches. Brown, currently a key player for the Philadelphia Eagles, has been linked with a potential trade to the New England Patriots, the reigning AFC champions, prompting questions about whether a shift to that franchise might be in the cards.
Speaking on ESPN’s NFL Live, Barkley addressed the swirling rumors directly. When asked about Brown’s potential ties to the Patriots, Barkley revealed,
He [Brown] is a huge Patriot fan… He’s always been a big Patriots fan.
He further explained Brown’s admiration for Tom Brady, stating,
Tom Brady… was throwing him the ball, so for him [Brown]… he was like a kid in a candy store.
This acknowledgment of Brown’s longstanding connection to the Patriots organization adds a new layer to the trade chatter.
When the host pressed him on whether Eagles supporters needed to worry about losing Brown due to his fandom, Barkley responded cautiously,
No, I don’t think so.
While NFL players typically focus fully on their current teams once they enter the league, Barkley’s remarks suggest Brown’s sentimental ties to New England have not completely faded. This could influence the wide receiver’s next destination after four seasons in Philadelphia and three seasons previously with the Tennessee Titans.
AJ Brown’s Contract and Performance Amid Trade Rumors
AJ Brown remains under contract with the Eagles through 2029, with a deal worth $96 million across three more seasons. However, contract length alone does not guarantee his permanence in Philadelphia. In the 2025 season, Brown recorded 78 receptions for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns, affirming his status as a top-tier wideout. Despite these numbers, reports hint at a growing disconnect between Brown, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts, and the coaching staff, fueling trade speculation.
Brown, at age 28, is still in his prime and could offer the Patriots a much-needed boost. New England’s receiving unit struggled late last season to create separation and make explosive plays, areas where Brown’s skill set could provide immediate benefits. According to the Pro Football Simulator Network’s WR Impact metric, Brown posted an 80.9 score in 2025, up from 91.4 in 2024, demonstrating consistent high-level production that would make him a focal point in any offense, including one potentially led by rookie quarterback Drake Maye.
What’s Ahead for AJ Brown and the Eagles?
Despite Barkley’s comments and the Patriots’ interest, nothing about Brown’s future is firmly settled. He could easily stay with the Eagles or be traded to another team beyond New England. Brown’s next move will depend largely on Philadelphia’s decisions during the upcoming offseason and free agency period. The developments surrounding Brown will significantly impact the Eagles’ strategic direction, as well as the Patriots’ efforts to strengthen their passing game.
.@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
