The NFL offseason has featured a number of major transactions since the new league year began. Teams are focusing on the NFL Draft, but that doesn’t mean rosters are fully set.
A few free-agent signings are still taking place. Teams are also working on trades as the key June 1 salary cap date approaches.
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The biggest story of the trade cycle? Disgruntled Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown. Brown reportedly requested multiple trades last season.
Sep 21, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ. Brown (11) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
He grew frustrated with his role in the offense and his relationships with teammates and coaches. Multiple teams have been linked to him, but one has stood out the most.
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The plan all along?
The Athletic reported that an NFL executive has hinted at where Brown will be traded. That destination? The New England Patriots.
This outcome has been the expectation throughout the offseason. Now, an NFL executive has confirmed that many around the league expect it to happen after June 1.
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“Expect the Patriots to acquire receiver A.J. Brown from Philadelphia in June, once the salary-cap implications become more tenable for the Eagles.” Mike Sando wrote.
Eagle receiver A.J. Brown gestures during the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl celebration in front of the Philadelphia Museum
Eagle receiver A.J. Brown gestures during the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl celebration in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Friday, Feb. 14, 2025. | William Bretzger-Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
According to multiple reports, the Eagles originally wanted to move Brown before March 13. A contract clause guaranteeing his 2026 salary took effect on that date.
After that deadline passed, trading Brown before June 1 became nearly impossible. Now, the NFL navigates the murky trade waters with a clearer plan.
A trade sending Brown to the Patriots would not only reunite him with head coach Mike Vrabel, but also give New England a true No. 1 receiver. While Stefon Diggs played well last year, many believe his best days are behind him.
Adding Brown, who still has plenty of football left, would make the Patriots a true force to be reckoned with on offense. Now the question becomes: what will the defending AFC champions give up to acquire his services?