A.J. Brown Trade Rumors Updated by NFL Execs amid Patriots, Eagles Buzz from League Meeting

There's an expectation within the NFL that the New England Patriots will be able to pull off a trade for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown, according to Mike Sando of The Athletic.

"Execs expect the Patriots to acquire receiver A.J. Brown from Philadelphia in June, once the salary-cap implications become more tenable for the Eagles," Sando reported Thursday. "They disagree over what Romeo Doubs adds at the position on a deal worth $17 million per year, which ranks 27th among receivers."

Philadelphia would incur a $43.4 million dead cap charge by trading Brown before June 1, which would drop to $16.4 million if he's moved after that date (via Over the Cap).

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie and general manager Howie Roseman have both sidestepped trade rumors involving Brown during the offseason, as the wideout was reportedly growing frustrated with quarterback Jalen Hurts throughout his 2025 campaign.

Brown caught 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025, averaging a career-low 12.9 yards per reception.

As for the Patriots, they're looking to remain an AFC contender after making a Super Bowl run last season and could target a new No. 1 receiving option for Drake Maye.

New England already handed Romeo Doubs a four-year contract worth $70 million in free agency, but Doubs hasn't recorded more than 724 yards in a season during his career.

While he should operate in a key role for the Patriots next season, his presence may not prevent them from pursuing Brown.