The New England Patriots are anticipated to be active in trade talks surrounding Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown, according to Chad Graff of The Athletic citing league sources. This interest comes as the Patriots may decide to cut veteran receiver Stefon Diggs this offseason if they cannot reduce his 2025 cap hit of $26.5 million.
If the Patriots part ways with Diggs, they are expected to explore trade possibilities involving Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans or Colts wideout Alec Pierce. Additionally, New England could pursue Brown or focus on selecting a wide receiver early in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Uncertainty Surrounding A.J. Brown’s Future with the Eagles
A.J. Brown has been the subject of ongoing trade speculation since the last season’s deadline, though no deal had materialized as of early June. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni was noncommittal when asked if Brown will remain with the team next season, reflecting the unpredictable nature of NFL roster decisions.
Will A.J. be here next season? I think we’re still in a spot, like, I can’t guarantee how anything is going to play out into next season. I’m thinking I’m going to be the coach next season but you can’t guarantee anything past tomorrow,
Sirianni said, via ESPN’s Tim McManus.
Sirianni also referenced general manager Howie Roseman’s statements about retaining key players and emphasized a shared desire to keep Brown in Philadelphia.
As Howie said, it’s hard to get good players in this league. A.J.’s a great player and A.J. is a good teammate and A.J. is a good person. Does he want to be here? Yes. Do I want him to be here? Yes.
Eagles’ Strategy on Listening to Trade Offers for Brown
Despite the positive remarks, Roseman affirmed that the Eagles must consider any worthwhile trade proposals once the league year begins.
I think you go into the league year listening to offers for everything and anything,
Roseman stated.
If someone is going to give you something you didn’t anticipate and you won’t even have the conversation, I don’t think you’re necessarily doing your job or really servicing the team you’re with.
You never know what someone is willing to do. Certainly, we’ve been in situations where there were guys we didn’t anticipate trading that we got an offer that was too good, and then you balance it with what you can get there.
A.J. Brown’s Career and Recent Performance Overview
Brown, 28, originally was a second-round draft pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2019. Approaching the final year of his rookie contract valued at roughly $5.5 million, he was traded to the Eagles in exchange for first- and third-round draft picks. Brown subsequently signed a four-year, $100 million extension with $57 million guaranteed, which was later restructured into a three-year, $96 million deal featuring $84 million guaranteed.
During the 2025 season, Brown has appeared in 13 games, recording 64 receptions for 840 yards and seven touchdowns. His performance continues to make him a valuable asset for the Eagles or a coveted target for teams like the Patriots.
Implications for the Patriots and Next Steps
Should the Patriots follow through with releasing Stefon Diggs, targeting A.J. Brown would signal a major move to reshape their receiving corps. Alternatively, they might consider other veteran receivers or prioritize the draft to replenish talent. The developments surrounding Brown’s status with the Eagles and New England’s trade pursuits will be closely monitored as the offseason progresses.
Additional updates on A.J. Brown and the Patriots’ trade negotiations will be provided as more information becomes available.
