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NFL
Eagles draft A.J. Brown replacement ahead of expected trade
TL;DR
The Eagles selected USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20 in the NFL Draft, signaling preparations for life after A.J. Brown. Trade speculation around Brown is increasing, particularly after June 1 when his salary becomes more manageable.
Key points
- Eagles drafted USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20
- Selection linked to trade speculation regarding A.J. Brown
- Brown's salary becomes manageable after June 1
Mentioned in this story
Philadelphia
Makai LemonEaglesA.J. BrownNFL Draft
The Eagles didnât trade up in the NFL Draft for USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 20 because they were bored. They did it because theyâre preparing for life after A.J. Brown. Philadelphia moved up with the Cowboys to grab Lemon, and we all know the implications. Brown remains on the roster, but all signs point to the Eagles moving on.
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Trade Speculation Is Getting Louder
The reporting is blunt. Multiple outlets have tied Lemonâs selection directly to trade speculation, including a widely circulated scenario involving A.J. Brown being moved after June 1, when his salary becomes more manageable, and the cap math opens up for a potential acquiring team.
As a replacement, you could certainly do worse. Zachariah Branch Lemon (referred to here as Lemon) isnât a gadget pick. Heâs coming off a legitimate junior season at USC Trojans, posting 79 catches, 1,156 yards, and 11 touchdowns. He steps into a receiver room alongside DeVonta Smith, which is key. This isnât about adding depth; itâs about planning for whatâs next.
Classic Philly Long-Term Planning
This is exactly how the Philadelphia Eagles operate. They plan the exit before the door is even open. The Eagles traded up to make this move. They did it in-division with the , which carries its own message. And theyâve done it all while maintaining a clean public stance.
Q&A
Why did the Eagles draft Makai Lemon?
The Eagles drafted Makai Lemon to prepare for a potential future without A.J. Brown, indicating a strategic move for the team's roster.
What are the implications of A.J. Brown's potential trade?
A.J. Brown's potential trade could significantly impact the Eagles' salary cap and roster dynamics, especially after June 1 when his contract becomes easier to manage.
When could A.J. Brown be traded?
A.J. Brown could be traded after June 1, when his salary cap hit becomes more manageable for potential acquiring teams.
