NFL DC Says Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown's Communication 'Just Isn't There Right Now'

A.J. Brown's surprisingly limited role in the Philadelphia Eagles passing game this season has been one of the storylines of the 2025 season thus far, and the reason for his inconsistent production has been a regular topic of conversation.

One theory remains some sort of change in Brown's chemistry with quarterback Jalen Hurts.

"Hurts struggles against zone," an opposing defensive coach told The Athletic's Dianna Russini. "That's when A.J. goes MIA. There are times it looks like Hurts doesn't fully trust what he's seeing, so he checks it down and plays it safe. It's either a deep shot or a checkdown—not much in between. The timing is just off. And you can see it on the field—the communication between Hurts and Brown just isn't there right now."

Brown, 28, has caught just 29 passes for 395 yards and three touchdowns this season. While he's first on the team in targets (51), he ranks second in receptions, yards and scores in the passing game.

It's pretty clear that something is amiss, if only gauged on Brown's quantity of cryptic social media posts this season (though it's possible at least some of them have been intended to troll local media).

One thing is certain—the Eagles need Brown. His ability to make contested downfield catches has allowed the Eagles to punish teams that load the box to stop the run or send all-out blitzes Hurts' way. Getting him more consistently involved beyond just deep routes, however, should be a goal for the second half of the season.