It's the story that never dies: Will the Philadelphia Eagles trade wide receiver A.J. Brown at any point during the offseason?
All signs seem to indicate that yes, it will happen, but it's a matter of when. Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton shared a trade meter for some of the big stars in the NFL, indicating whether they will be traded before or during the 2026 NFL Draft. Moton has Brown getting moved at a four.
"By the way, recent insider reports have linked the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams to a potential trade for Brown. So, he might have a healthy market for his services elsewhere. However, the Eagles would take on a massive $43.4 million dead-cap hit if they trade Brown before June 1—that cost would drop to $16.4 million after that date. Unless general manager Howie Roseman receives premium draft capital for Brown, it would be best for him to wait until the summer to trade him. Nonetheless, if Philadelphia drafts a receiver early, it's an indicator that the team will consider trading Brown in the late spring or early summer and move forward with DeVonta Smith, Hollywood Brown and a rookie in three-receiver sets."
Trade meter indicates Eagles are more likely to move after the NFL Draft
Honestly, Eagles fans have been saying this for months, but the national media was so focused on this story happening that they refused to believe it. Philly has to consider the financial aspects of this situation and ensure they are set up for success if they move on from Brown.
The Patriots still seem like the top choice to land Brown based on his relationship with head coach Mike Vrabel. It would be a good landing spot for him, but that trade won't just easily happen, though.
Philly needs to get draft picks, and Eagles general manager Howie Roseman isn't going to give Brown up for just one or two Day 2 picks. Roseman has his sights on a first-round pick for Brown, which makes sense since Jaylen Waddle went for a first-round pick and DJ Moore went for a second-round selection.
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There's still so much that can change in the coming weeks, but the Eagles would be wise to hold off for the time being. It's surprising to see that people have come to terms with the fact that a trade won't happen right away. It's a good thing Eagles fans know their team so well.