Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown has been in trade rumors for several weeks, and the New England Patriots are in hot pursuit. Despite the signing of wide receiver Romeo Doubs, the Patriots are still interested in acquiring Brown from Philadelphia. Other teams like the Los Angeles Rams have also been linked.
A trade for the Browns is unlikely to happen after June 1 due to financial reasons, but talks could heat up as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches. In fact, the most likely place for Brown to land has been revealed.
As ESPN's Adam Schefter reports on UNSPORTSMANLIKE, the Patriots are the "most likely" destination for Brown amid trade rumors. Despite rumors that there is a "gentlemen's agreement" between New England and Philadelphia, both organizations have no pending deal for Brown at this time.
Brown has several ties to the Patriots, including former Tennessee Titans teammates and head coach Mike Vrabel. New England was also the star wide receiver's favorite team growing up. All signs point to the Patriots being Brown's team, but that doesn't mean it's going to happen.
Potential trade package from AJ Brown to the New England Patriots
The Patriots and Eagles have been in talks over a potential trade for Brown since last month, but nothing has come to fruition yet. Despite the 2026 NFL Draft coming up in about a month, it's likely the two sides will continue trade talks in June. If so, this may help each party finalize a deal.
If New England wants to make a deal for Brown this offseason, they must offer a 2027 first-round pick and a 2027 third-round pick. Philadelphia is seeking a first-round pick and a second-round pick, but the Jaylen Waddle to Denver Broncos trade would have set the market for each organization.
There is a possibility that New England offers a 2028 draft pick instead of a 2027 pick, but it depends on what the Eagles want in return for their star wide receiver. It's clear that the Patriots are the most realistic landing spot for Brown, and both sides need to reach a middle ground to complete a deal.
The 2027 NFL Draft is expected to be very strong, so New England may be more incentivized to include a 2028 draft pick instead of two 2027 picks. Trade between the two sides has to be completed, but the possibility of negotiations breaking down is also realistic.
New England and Philadelphia are in no rush to complete a trade for the Browns, and talks could intensify as June 1 approaches. For now, both sides are in a waiting game, and an offer for one of the NFL's best wide receivers may not come until the summer.
READ MORE: NFL Insider gives major update on AJ Brown, Patriots trade rumors
