The New England Patriots are still looking to improve after losing to the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl. New England has signed wide receiver Romeo Doubs, offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker and others. However, the Patriots are looking for a top wide receiver, and the NFL believes they will get one.
NFL officials expect the Patriots to acquire wide receiver AJ Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles in June, as The Athletic's Mike Sandow reports. This will happen after June 1 as it will make more sense from a financial point of view. The Eagles would save approximately $30 million if they traded Brown after June 1 instead of before.
New England needs a true elite wide receiver, and while Dobbs is a nice pickup, Brown is a superstar. The Eagles wide receiver has concerns about his knee and character, leading the Patriots to go with his former head coach, Mike Vrabel, as the top landing spot.
Potential trade package from AJ Brown to the New England Patriots
The Patriots and Eagles need to find a middle ground in trade talks for Brown. Philadelphia wants a first-round pick and a second-round pick; However, New England has not met the demands. Instead, both sides are likely to wait until June 1 to find the best package.
After signing Dobbs, the Patriots must offer a second-round pick, a fourth-round pick and wide receiver Keyshawn Bout. New England will have a wide receiver room of Brown, Dobbs, Kyle Williams, Mack Hollins, Demario Douglas, Afton Chism and any other additions from the 2026 NFL Draft.
If the Patriots acquire Brown, Boute would be expendable and in return would give the Eagles a deep threat. If Philadelphia wants to replace Brown and make a push for the Super Bowl, the 23-year-old wide receiver would be an excellent option. Also, the organization will receive a selection in return.
If Boutte is not moved, the Patriots must trade a first-round pick and a fourth-round pick to complete the deal. The two teams could also exchange lower round picks to make it a little more attractive for Philadelphia. Perhaps the Patriots could send a fifth-round pick while receiving a seventh-round pick.
There are several ways for the Browns to complete the trade. Whether it's just a package of draft picks or another player is included, a deal has to be made for New England and Philadelphia. The Patriots want Brown, and NFL officials expect the trade to be completed in June.
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