The Philadelphia Eagles are tracking toward trading star receiver A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots on or after June 1, when the three-time Pro Bowler's $40-million cap hit can be split between 2026 and 2027, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Although the Eagles and Patriots have the framework of a potential trade, negotiations aren't expected to pick up during the 2026 NFL Draft, Schefter adds.
While Philadelphia is open to moving Brown, the organization is reportedly more inclined to acquire draft picks in 2027 or 2028. Both the Los Angeles Rams and Patriots' trade proposals have focused on future selections, per Schefter.
Brown has been at the center of trade speculation for several months after expressing frustration regarding his role in the Eagles' offense.
Philly bolstered its receiving depth chart in free agency, signing Marquise Brown and Elijah Moore. The club also acquired Dontayvion Wicks in a trade with the Green Bay Packers on April 10.
New England appears eager to add more weapons on offense to support rising quarterback Drake Maye. The Patriots could form a productive receiving corps by adding Brown to a group headlined by Romeo Doubs, Mack Hollins, and Kayshon Boutte.
A move to New England would also reunite Brown with head Mike Vrabel after the pair spent three seasons together (2019-21) on the Tennessee Titans.
Brown isn't expected to attend the start of Philadelphia's offseason workout program as he awaits clarity on his future, sources told NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
