For each of the last two seasons, it has been an active debate as to whether Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown is more trouble than the upside is worth. Just from the receiver's actions in the 2025 season, it is clear that Brown cares more about personal accolades and production than playing winning football. The polarizing playmaker is seemingly only happy when he is consistently being fed the football and is central to Philly's offensive game plan, which has grown old as time has passed.
Browns' unhappiness has been evident from early on this season and hasn't slowed down with the receiver doubling down to the point it is impossible to wonder if Brown isn't attempting to force Philly's hand. While a move obviously isn't happening between now and February, it is hard to argue against turning the page away from Brown, no matter how the rest of the season plays out.
Rest of Season Will Decide AJ Brown's Eagles Fate
Trading away Brown in 2026 would prove costly, depending on when it happens, as proven by the numbers below (courtesy of Spotrac):
Transaction | Dead Cap Hit | Salary Cap Savings |
|---|---|---|
Pre-June 1 Cut | $72,515,106 | $-49,121,609 |
Post-June 1 Cut | $45,353,497 | $-21,960,000 |
Pre-June 1 Trade | $43,515,106 | $-20,121,609 |
Post-June 1 Trade | $16,353,497 | $7,040,000 |
In other words, the likeliest situation, if the Eagles want to move on in 2026, is to trade Brown after June 1. With the league seemingly never being more talented at the skill positions, the Eagles are going to have zero problem attracting star pass catchers. Players who understand and value the chance at putting together a dynastic run.
Brown's selfish style simply doesn't fit a Philly team whose entire identity is built around doing whatever it takes to win. It isn't a franchise that is building a roster that is defined by ego or personal numbers, but focused on finding ways to win each week, no matter what this means for individual numbers. The Eagles need to bring in a star receiver who is willing to play this role without complaints, even if it means moving on from Brown's undeniable skills.
Even with the dead cap hit that it will incur, the Eagles are arguably a better team without Brown in the lineup. The Eagles have more than enough talent to start a dynasty after winning Super Bowl 59, and the last thing they want is for that potential to disappear because Brown can't stop causing unnecessary distractions, even when Philly is winning.
Through almost 13 weeks, Brown has given the Eagles plenty of reasons to move on from him. Now, it's up to him to give Philadelphia every reason to believe that he can be part of the solution down the stretch, and not an offseason problem waiting to be taken care of.