The New England Patriots started the 2026 offseason with a clear need for a top wide receiver. After letting Stefon Diggs go and missing out on Alec Pierce, they have had to look elsewhere. Now their search is focusing on the trade market, with Philadelphia Eagles star A.J. Brown becoming a possible target.
Patriots Hesitant to Meet Eagles’ Reported Asking Price for A.J. Brown
If the Patriots could manage to trade for Brown, that would immediately boost their offense and give quarterback Drake Maye the proven No. 1 receiver and immediate playmaker the team needs. It’s important to note that a recent report said the Patriots and Eagles are not close to agreeing on a trade price.
According to NFL insider Albert Breer, “time will tell” on which team eventually gives in:
“Finally, we’ve mentioned how the Patriots, Chiefs, Chargers, and Bills were the teams on A.J. Brown’s wish list and that New England appeared to be the only team from that group really in on the idea of trading for the 28-year-old three-time All-Pro,” Breer said.
He added, “That would seem to give the Patriots some leverage. But on the flip side, Brown is really the only top-shelf receiver on the trade market, which gives the Eagles leverage. Or maybe putting those two elements together will just turn this into a staring contest.”
The Eagles might be open to trading Brown if they get a strong enough offer. Around the league, people have talked about a deal that would include a 2027 first-round pick and a 2026 second-round pick.
That kind of trade package is a big ask and appears to be the main sticking point for New England.
It makes sense that the Patriots are cautious. Trading away a first-round pick is a big move, especially for a team still building around a young quarterback. On the other hand, players as productive as Brown do not often hit the market. Brown, who is 28, had another strong season in Philadelphia, finishing with 78 catches for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns in only 15 games.
Other reports say Brown has a list of teams he would like to join, including the Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, and Buffalo Bills. Among these teams, New England is said to be the most active in trying to make a trade happen.
For now, talks appear to remain at a standstill. But with the Patriots still searching for a top target to pair with Maye, Brown’s name will likely continue to arise in trade discussions.
