Sad News: Eagles Set to Cut Ties with $96 Million Star
In a stunning development, the Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly set to move on from star wide receiver A.J. Brown, despite the team just winning the Super Bowl. Brown, who signed a three-year, $96 million contract extension, is expected to be forced out via trade as the Eagles make difficult roster decisions. The news comes as a shock to fans, given Brown’s massive role in the team’s recent success. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are preparing to make a major move to land the elite wideout, setting up what could be one of the biggest trades of the offseason.
Why Are the Eagles Moving on from Brown?
A.J. Brown has been one of the NFL’s most dominant wide receivers since arriving in Philadelphia via trade from the Tennessee Titans in 2022. Over the past three seasons, he has been a game-changer for quarterback Jalen Hurts, posting consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and playing a pivotal role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning campaign this past season.
Despite that success, Philadelphia is facing serious salary cap constraints, forcing the front office to make tough decisions. Brown’s hefty contract, combined with upcoming extensions for key players like DeVonta Smith and Jordan Davis, has made him a trade candidate. While many expected the Eagles to find ways to keep their core intact, Brown’s situation has now become the team’s biggest offseason storyline.
Adding to the speculation is the rumored tension between Brown and the organization throughout the 2025 season. Although he remained productive, his chemistry with Jalen Hurts seemed to decline, and there were whispers of frustration behind the scenes. While nothing was made public, the Eagles’ willingness to move on suggests there may be more to the situation than just financial concerns.
The Patriots Are Ready to Make a Huge Move
If Brown is indeed on the move, the New England Patriots appear to be one of the frontrunners to land him. The Patriots have desperately needed a true No. 1 wide receiver for years, and acquiring a superstar like Brown would immediately transform their struggling offense.
With a new head coach in Jerod Mayo and a front office eager to rebuild the franchise, New England is expected to be aggressive in trade talks. They hold multiple high draft picks and have cap space to absorb Brown’s contract. For a team that has lacked a true playmaker since the days of Randy Moss, this could be the splash move they need to return to relevance.
What This Means for Both Teams
For the Eagles, trading Brown would mark the end of an exciting era but could also provide flexibility to build for the future. Philadelphia still has DeVonta Smith, who is due for a contract extension, and a strong offensive foundation. However, replacing Brown’s production won’t be easy, and the decision to move him—just after winning a Super Bowl—will be controversial among fans.
For the Patriots, acquiring Brown would be a franchise-altering move. Whether they roll with a rookie quarterback like Drake Maye or another veteran, Brown would immediately provide a dominant offensive weapon and signal a return to high-level competition.
Final Thoughts
It’s rare for a Super Bowl-winning team to part ways with one of its best players immediately after a championship, but that’s the reality the Eagles are facing. A.J. Brown’s time in Philadelphia may be coming to an unexpected end, and while the Patriots and other teams are preparing big offers, Eagles fans are left wondering how their offense will look without their superstar receiver.
