If the return for A.J. Brown is straight up a 2028 first round draft pick — and from what I understand, that is the case — then it would come two draft cycles after the parameters of a deal between the
#Eagles and Patriots were likely set.
That’s quite a drop in compensation if the initial asking price, as I had heard it, was a first and a second rounder. Some of that seemed posturing.
But the Rams were really the only other serious suitor. Brown was coming off a down season, has medical concerns with his knees, and requires some maintenance off the field. He’s also still highly regarded around the league and has many who vouch for his character and leadership.
The Eagles will save money by moving him — a significant $133.1M in cash — but there is also a dead money charge (around $43M) that necessitated a post-June 1 roster move. So they will be getting more than just the future first rounder for Brown.
It’s not apples to apples, but if you look at the most recent trade for a top receiver — the Broncos gave up 2026 1st, 3d and 4th round picks for Jaylen Waddle and a Dolphins 4th — the Eagles’ return isn’t close to comparable.
Waddle is 19 months younger, but he’s a tier below Brown. Perhaps Denver overpaid, but that market should have conceivably helped the
#Eagles.