Why the Eagles trading up for Makai Lemon is bad news for A.J. Brown

TL;DR

The Philadelphia Eagles traded up to select wide receiver Makai Lemon in the 2026 NFL Draft, which complicates A.J. Brown's future with the team. Rumors suggest Brown may be traded to the New England Patriots after June 1 due to contract issues.

Key points

Eagles traded up to No. 20 in the 2026 NFL Draft
Makai Lemon is a Biletnikoff Award winner
A.J. Brown is rumored to be on the trading block
Trade to the Patriots is expected post-June 1
Lemon had 79 receptions for 1,156 yards last season

Philadelphia EaglesDallas CowboysNew England PatriotsMakai Lemon

Why the Eagles trading up for Makai Lemon is bad news for A.J. Brown originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Philadelphia Eagles got a future star wide receiver in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. After trading up to No. 20 with the Dallas Cowboys, Makai Lemon will make his way to the City of Brotherly Love. The Biletnikoff Award winner will be a great addition for the Eagles and a weapon for Jalen Hurts in an offense ready to show off his attributes.

Lemon heading to Philly is great news for the organization, except A.J. Brown, who has been rumored to be on the trading block as of late. This puts a wrinkle in any conversation about the former All-Pro and Super Bowl champion staying.

The Eagles are expected to trade Brown to the New England Patriots on or after June 1, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. While not yet a formally binding deal, it is considered likely to happen due to contract and cap considerations. Given what's going on currently with head coach Mike Vrabel, this might not be the best landing spot for Brown.

With Brown ready to be shipped away, Lemon will be there to fill the gaps. The Trojans star had 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. He averaged 14.6 yards per catch in 12 games at USC. There was a time leading up to the draft with Lemon projected as a top-10 pick.