NFL Writer Predicts Patriots Will Make Big A.J. Brown Move, Altering Draft Plans originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots face a significant decision this offseason regarding a potential trade for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown.
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If the Eagles are willing to move on from Brown, the Patriots seem to be the most obvious landing spot, and Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski thinks New England will trade a 2026 first-round pick for Brown.
“The Patriots won’t find as impactful a performer, at least in the short term, with this year’s 31st overall pick,” Sobleski wrote on Thursday. “New England is again operating at a Super Bowl standard. Brown can help elevate the entire offense while reuniting with his first head coach, Mike Vrabel.
“Philadelphia could be patient to preserve as much financial flexibility as possible. But it will be difficult for general manager Howie Roseman to forgo a first-round pick this year when Brown’s value can diminish by waiting, because the Eagles will lose leverage as time goes on.”
The Eagles don’t seem inclined to part ways with Brown and likely want to hold off until after June 1. If they trade Brown before that date, they would face a substantial $43 million dead cap hit this season. However, if Philadelphia waits until after June 1 to trade Brown, it won’t be able to recover any 2026 draft picks in the deal, which could pose a challenge if the Eagles are looking to find Brown’s replacement right now.
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It may be difficult for the Eagles to oppose trading Brown after the draft, as this move could help them acquire valuable picks this year and keep Philadelphia in the running as a Super Bowl contender.
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