By now, every [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) fan has heard the rumors about the team's interest in trading for Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown, but do they really need him?
The Patriots signed Romeo Doubs this offseason, and he will have a chance to be their No. 1 receiver, replacing Stefon Diggs. However, after signing Doubs, the Patriots reportedly still had interest in Brown. The Eagles are reportedly no longer looking to trade him at this time, but conversations could resume after June 1, when cap implications change.
Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler and has surpassed 1,000 yards in every season but one in his career. However, the Patriots do not need him, per se. He would be a great addition, but the Patriots are in a position to make another Super Bowl run even without adding him. Kyshon Boutte could step into an expanded role, and Kyle Williams could also step up with Diggs gone.
Additionally, Brown will be expensive for the Patriots from a salary cap perspective. If the team really wants to add another receiver, they could target one in the draft.
Doubs was a major investment for the team, and adding Brown would make him a very expensive No. 2 receiver. He is very talented and could thrive as the top target for Drake Maye. The Patriots may be better suited to hold off on Brown, hang on to their draft assets, and invest the money into other parts of the team.
The Patriots have extensions for Maye and Christian Gonzalez looming, and that will not be cheap.
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