Former Eagles star Jason Kelce was teammates with wide receiver A.J. Brown for two years and, like many current Eagles players, respects Brown and enjoyed being around him.
But Kelce also understands why some believe the Eagles should trade the three-time All-Pro this offseason.
“He’s just unfortunately a player who allows his internal frustrations to manifest into his play, and it makes him play worse and makes the offense worse and it makes his energy worse,” Kelce said Thursday on the 94WIP Morning Show.
The Eagles have yet to make a decision on Brown’s future, per multiple reports. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, many high-level NFL executives expect the Eagles to entertain trade offers for their star wide receiver.
Unhappy with his role in the offense this past season, Brown dropped cryptic statements on social media, called the offense a “s---show” during a Madden stream and spoke about his frustrations with reporters.
Brown was targeted seven times in the Eagles’ first-round playoff loss to the 49ers last month. He caught three passes for 25 yards, with several drops.
The 28-year-old faced criticism throughout the season for poor blocking effort and concentration drops. In total, he finished the year with 78 catches for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns.
If the Eagles decide to bring back Brown next season, they’ll need him to stay focused. Kelce is unsure he can do it.
“Some guys can block (frustration) out and just go out there and play football,” Kelce said. “He is clearly not one of those guys.”