Patriots have to feel relieved after latest A.J. Brown trade report

Patriots have to feel relieved after latest A.J. Brown trade report originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The rest of the New England Patriots’ offseason will determine how high their ceiling is for the 2026-27 campaign.

Although the six-time Super Bowl champions possess an ascending quarterback in Drake Maye and a stout defense, they lack explosive offensive weapons.

Releasing Stefon Diggs, who finished with 1,013 yards and four touchdowns with the Super-Bowl-bound Patriots last year, virtually guaranteed that the franchise would pursue a standout wide receiver on the trade or free agent market.

Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown is that player, but his name has been attached to several other organizations in the last few weeks. That said, the Athletic’s Mike Jones report should put the franchise at ease as they attempt to pull off one of the biggest trades of the offseason.

“The discontent of the Philadelphia Eagles’ most talented wide receiver is no secret,” Jones wrote Monday. “This summer, the three-time Pro Bowl pick and Super Bowl LIX champ is expected to finally get the fresh start he craves.”

“Because of how his contract is structured, a deal isn’t expected to take place until after June 1, but it’s believed Brown will wind up in New England, where he could wind up being the piece that helps further elevate quarterback Drake Maye and the Patriots’ offense.”

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported similar news in late April, but it isn't asinine to suggest that it’s refreshing for the Patriots and its fan base to receive much-needed reassurance. Baggage aside, Brown is the type of contributor that would do wonders for a New England with a clear WR void.

The three-time Pro Bowler’s elite jump ball success rate, double-move fluidity, and strong hands would give Maye a dynamic go-to receiving target in Year 3. Brown has totaled four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with the Eagles in addition to winning a Super Bowl with the NFC East franchise in 2024-25.

Of course, the Patriots can’t celebrate Brown’s arrival until a trade is finalized, but things appear promising in mid-May.

More NFL:

• Steelers-Browns trade pitch sends $4 million Pro Bowl QB, Aaron Rodgers replacement to Pittsburgh
• Cowboys predicted to cut ties with George Pickens in favor of declining $10 million Bills WR
• Eagles named top landing spot for former Cowboys $21 million starter