After a controversial season with the Philadelphia Eagles, several fans and analysts have urged the franchise to part ways with star wide receiver A.J. Brown. One organization that has repeatedly emerged in trade rumors is the New England Patriots. The move would not only be a great fit but also allow Brown to reunite with his former head coach, Mike Vrabel.
Mike Vrabel Addresses A.J. Brown Trade Rumors
On Friday afternoon, Vrabel met with CLNS Media to discuss New England’s offseason plans and expectations heading into next year. During the segment, he was asked about the possibility of trading for his former player in Brown, whom he previously coached in Tennessee. However, Vrabel was noncommittal, offering a vague response.
“I think that we’ll look at everything that we can possibly look at to add to our roster. There’s a lot of things that go into trades. There’s a lot of back and forth and taking on compensation. And so I’m sure there’ll be a lot of opportunities for us to talk about trades this week and as we get closer to the draft.”
Vrabel and Brown first teamed up in 2021, where they spent three seasons together in Tennessee. Across 43 appearances, Brown hauled in 185 receptions for 2,995 yards and 26 touchdowns.
Meanwhile, the Titans posted a 32-17 regular-season record and reached the postseason each year.
Notably, in 2019, the Titans advanced to the AFC Championship Game, marking the duo’s deepest playoff run. It also ranked as Brown’s most productive season, as he placed third among all wide receivers according to PFSN’s WR Impact metric.
After four seasons in Philadelphia, Brown appears ready for another change. Despite hauling in 78 receptions for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns, it became evident he was misused in the Eagles’ offense.
Now, with the offseason in full swing, trade speculation has begun to grow. Brown, recognized as a “Huge Patriots fan,” could view New England as his next destination.
If he were to land there, the fit would be seamless. The Patriots’ top priority this offseason is acquiring a true alpha receiver, as their 2025 postseason run made clear when the passing game struggled to find consistency.
Brown, a former All-Pro who can win at all three levels, would immediately address that issue. Additionally, pairing him with Maye, PFSN’s second-ranked quarterback this season, would give New England one of the more dangerous quarterback-receiver duos in the NFL.
Lastly, and most importantly for Brown, he would reunite with the reigning Coach of the Year, Vrabel, and help the Patriots re-enter title contention in 2026.
