In an ideal world, the Philadelphia Eagles would keep A.J. Brown around for the remainder of his career. However, given the way things have trended over the past months, it's hard to believe that's a realistic possibility.
As things stand now, it looks like the Eagles will trade Brown after June 2. There is zero reason to do anything until then, as trading Brown would then leave them with a massive dead cap hit. However, despite Brown's immense talent, they may not get the return they were hoping for.
According to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, who made the comments during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show," the Eagles may only get a first-round selection for their disgruntled star, and it might not even be for the 2027 NFL Draft.
"I think AJ Brown knows where his future is headed at this moment," Schefter said. "I still think he's getting traded to New England for a 2028 first-round draft pick... Once we get to June these two sides will get together to complete this trade."
The Eagles May Only Get One First-Round Pick for A.J. Brown
The Eagles were reportedly seeking multiple draft picks in any trade for their star wideout. However, that's just too hefty a price for a player who openly wants to leave, not to mention the fact that he's aging.
As such, the Eagles might not be able to land a valuable selection in one of the most promising drafts in recent years. Instead, they may have to wait until 2028 to reap the benefits of cutting ties with their primary playmaker.
General manager Howie Roseman has been open about his desire to keep Brown there for the remainder of his career. That said, with all the trade buzz surrounding him and a potential reunion with Mike Vrabel, a trade to the New England Patriots certainly looks like the most likely option.
Moreover, with the Eagles taking USC star WR Makai Lemon in the first round of the draft, it looks like they might be bracing for life without A.J. Brown. They already have a potential star WR1 in DeVonta Smith, so they should do just fine.
However, as for fetching the king's ransom that they hoped Brown could go for, that doesn't seem realistic right now. He clearly wants to leave the City of Brotherly Love. Unfortunately, after two ugly exits in as many stops, other teams might be hesitant to give up valuable assets for a player who has already burned way too many bridges. That only hurts the Eagles in the end, as we are seeing.
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