The New England Patriots are in need of a star wide receiver, and AJ Brown remains the most logical fit. The Philadelphia Eagles are encouraged to trade Brown after June 1 for cap reasons, while New England will happily wait. So, what is the latest update on Brown's potential trade with the Patriots?
Brown is still expected to be traded to the Patriots in June, as ESPN's Adam Schefter reports on the Get Up. Schefter said that despite ongoing issues with head coach Mike Vrabel, the Eagles' superstar is still tracking to join New England.
With a trade very likely, what should the Patriots send the Eagles for Brown in June?
What trade should the New England Patriots make for AJ Brown
Brown to New England is one of the NFL's worst-kept secrets, and a trade should come within the next three weeks. The Eagles have filled out their wide receiver room in anticipation of a deal. Meanwhile, the Patriots haven't added much other than adding Romeo Doubs in place of Stefon Diggs.
The 28-year-old wide receiver will likely command a 2028 first-round pick and more. Therefore, New England should trade their 2028 first-round pick and wide receiver Kayshon Bout to Philadelphia. If the Eagles don't want Bouté, the Patriots should include a third- or fourth-round pick instead.
Brown will replace Boute in the New England offense, so Boute will not be able to step up. Even if the Eagles do not trade for the 24-year-old wide receiver, he will likely be on the move before the 2026-27 NFL season. It wouldn't hurt for Philadelphia to acquire Bout in exchange for Brown, however.
The Eagles had high demands for Brown in March, and although the Patriots likely won't meet them, the organization should get plenty of value. Losing Brown would be a huge loss for Philadelphia's offense, but it appears to be the best development for both sides.
As far as the Patriots are concerned, they'll just have to wait until June to acquire Brown.
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