It isn't exactly a hot take to point out that Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown is exposing himself as a selfish player. Despite being a defending Super Bowl champion and on a 4-2 team that remains in great playoff positioning, Brown refuses to make life easier. Whether it is posting cryptic messages on social media or throwing his quarterback under the bus. Every chance Brown has to give a canned answer that sends a team-focused message, the pass catcher makes life harder on his offense and coaching staff. Leading to one of The Athletic reporting some eyebrow-raising comments.
"Brown doesn’t look frustrated or mad — he looks indifferent. And that’s not a good place to be.” A GM in the AFC said, I think Howie (Roseman) moves him. It would have to be for the right player or pick, but (a trade) wouldn’t surprise me. Howie likes deals, especially if a player’s value overrides how Brown is being used.""Anonymous AFC GM
Any part of this comment isn't a shock, but it points out the obvious that it has to help the Eagles win now. As much of a headache as Brown is making himself, there is no denying the physical receiver is one of the brightest stars at the position. You don't have the skill players to lose Brown and remain a Super Bowl contender. If you make a deal that pushes Brown to another roster, it has to include or set up another star coming to Philly in return.
Eagles Star A.J. Brown Continues to Fuel Potential Trade Speculation Amid Frustrating Slide
With this in mind, every time Brown speaks to the media over the last three weeks, it seems it becomes increasingly likely that a trade is going to happen. Throwing your coach and quarterback under the bus is not to the standard the Eagles have built. Philly has established that winning is above all else, and Brown is actively undermining this approach.
It is a distraction for the team and a frustration for a quarterback who previously was playing the best ball of his career. It wasn't just the numbers, but a willingness to do whatever it takes to win. Jalen Hurts was going to figure out the game and the correct approach to end with a win.
Now, this has changed with immense pressure on Hurts to find Brown early in games and satisfy the frustrated receiver. It changes the offensive approach and has put a trade on the table. While Brown adjusting his attitude and being more open to Philly's brand of offense remains the best path, a trade could still happen. However, Eagles fans can take a breath in the fact that Roseman isn't going to make a move without having another answer in line. Leaving the situation very much in question as the Eagles continue a mini-bye.