AJ Brown on the Move? Exploring Potential Trade Destinations for the Eagles WR

The Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory feels like a distant memory after a shaky start to the 2025 season. While the team sits at 1-1 after a narrow 20-17 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, the offense, particularly the passing game, has left much to be desired. This has led to some rumblings: Is A.J. Brown on the move?

Week 1 Woes Spark Trade Speculation

After a Week 1 performance against the Dallas Cowboys where Brown hauled in just one catch for eight yards, the NFL rumor mill started churning. Was Brown unhappy? Was the Eagles’ offense not utilizing him correctly? While one game is a small sample size, it was enough to ignite speculation about potential trade destinations for the star wide receiver. Highlight: A.J. Brown’s first catch of 2025 helps seal the win over Dallas.

Roseman Shuts Down Initial Trade Inquiries

Despite the outside noise, Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman has a history of aggressively reshaping his roster. Diana Russini of The Athletic reported that several teams inquired about Brown’s availability during the offseason. However, Roseman “flat-out” rejected all offers. This demonstrates the Eagles’ initial commitment to keeping Brown as a key part of their offense.

Brown’s Value to the Eagles

Since joining the Eagles in 2022, A.J. Brown has been nothing short of sensational. He quickly became quarterback Jalen Hurts’ favorite target, setting a single-season franchise record with 1,496 receiving yards in his first year, surpassing Mike Quick’s long-standing mark. He followed that up with a career-high 106 receptions in 2023. A.J. Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler and All-Pro selection. He has consistently produced at a high level, making him one of the most coveted receivers in the league.

The Shift in Offensive Philosophy

The arrival of Saquon Barkley has signaled a shift in the Eagles’ offensive approach. The team is now leaning heavily on the run game, which has impacted the passing volume and, consequently, Brown’s target share. In Week 1 against the Cowboys, Brown was targeted only once, a stark contrast to the 145 and 158 targets he received in his first two seasons with the team.

Week 2 Improvement, But Still Not Elite

In the Super Bowl LIX rematch against the Chiefs, Brown saw an increase in involvement, finishing with five receptions for 27 yards. While this was an improvement over his Week 1 performance, it’s still far from the elite production expected from a receiver of his caliber. DeVonta Smith led the Eagles in receiving with 53 yards, further highlighting the changing dynamics of the Eagles’ passing game.

Potential Trade Scenarios: Who Would Be Interested?

Despite Roseman’s initial reluctance to trade Brown, the possibility remains if the receiver’s usage continues to decline. Several teams could benefit from adding a player of Brown’s talent.

Houston Texans: Following injuries and departures, the Texans are looking to rebuild their receiving corps around quarterback C.J. Stroud. Brown would provide an immediate upgrade and a reliable target for the young quarterback.
Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders are searching for a true number-one receiver to pair with quarterback Geno Smith. Brown’s consistent production and ability to stretch the field would fill a critical need for the Raiders’ offense.
New England Patriots: Colin Cowherd suggested the Patriots as a potential landing spot, citing their need for a top receiver and Mike Vrabel’s previous experience coaching Brown in Tennessee.
Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens have struggled to find a consistent WR3 and could use Brown to add stability to their receiving corps and provide Lamar Jackson with another weapon.
Los Angeles Chargers: Despite having Keenan Allen, the Chargers lack a true star receiver. Justin Herbert is a top quarterback, and Jim Harbaugh needs to provide him with the necessary weapons to succeed.

Contractual Considerations

Any team trading for Brown would need to take on his three-year, $96 million contract extension, which he signed in April 2024. This is a significant financial commitment, but one that many teams would be willing to make for a player of Brown’s caliber.

The Dead Cap Implications

Trading Brown before June 1st of next year would result in a dead cap charge of over $43 million for the Eagles. Even a post-June 1st trade would leave them with a dead cap charge of over $16 million. These are significant financial implications that would need to be carefully considered before making any move.

Conclusion: Will Brown Stay in Philadelphia?

As of now, all indications are that the Eagles are not actively looking to trade A.J. Brown. However, the NFL is a volatile league, and things can change quickly. If Brown’s usage continues to decline and his frustrations grow, the Eagles may have to reconsider their position. For now, fans should enjoy watching one of the league’s most dynamic receivers in midnight green, but keep an eye on the evolving situation as the season progresses.