The rumors of a deal for AJ Brown from the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams got even tougher after the deal that sent Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos.
One of the biggest stories in the NFL over the past few weeks has been on the future of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown. The three-time Pro Bowler didn't hide his disappointment with the way he was used during the 2025 season. This has led to much speculation that the Eagles could move him this offseason.
While both the Rams and Patriots are reportedly the two top contenders for the 28-year-old, rumors suggest the current asking price is a significant hurdle in securing a deal. Well, the new trade sending Jaylen Waddle to Denver would strengthen Philadelphia's case for demanding at least a first- and second-round pick in a trade for the Browns.
On Tuesday, the Broncos agreed to send a first (No. 30), third- and fourth-round pick for Waddle and a fourth-rounder in next month's NFL Draft.
Why is the Jaylen Waddle trade bad for the Patriots and Rams?
The trade return for Miami is bad news for the Patriots, Rams and any other team interested in trading for the Browns. The expectation is that patience and the Eagles' ongoing salary cap issues may lead to general manager Howie Roseman lowering his current price for the star receiver. That's no longer a possibility after what the Dolphins got for Waddle.
The 27-year-old is a good pass catcher and has the talent to become a true WR1. However, he benefited greatly from being on the other side of the field from future Hall of Famer Tyreek Hill. Still, he has only had three seasons with 1,000 or more receiving yards in five years, and he has never earned Pro Bowl honors.
Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler who has had fewer than 1,000 yards receiving in only one of his seven NFL seasons. If Waddle can get a first, third and fourth rounder, Brown's value should be much higher as he has a far better resume and is only a year older. If the Patriots or Rams want Brown, it would cost at least a first- and second-round draft pick.
