BLG's AJ Brown Reality Check: Why the Eagles Likely Trade Their Star Receiver

BLG's AJ Brown Reality Check: Why the Eagles Likely Trade Their Star Receiver

AJ Brown made the media rounds at the Super Bowl, said the right things about wanting to stay in Philadelphia, and showed none of the frustration that marked his 2025 season. So why does the smart money still point toward a trade this offseason?

What AJ Didn't Say

As analyzed on Birds 365, the most telling part of Brown's Super Bowl media availability wasn't what he said — it was what he avoided. Brown spoke positively about remaining an Eagle but never committed long-term, never discussed a restructured deal, and never took the leverage position of demanding to stay.

That's strategic. A player who truly wants to stay typically stakes his claim publicly, making any trade more difficult for the front office. Brown's measured approach keeps all options open, which suggests he's prepared for either outcome.

The Reality vs. The Hope

There's a difference between what should happen and what will happen. Brown should remain in Philadelphia — he's a top-five receiver in football, a perfect complement to DeVonta Smith, and the Eagles' best weapon in the red zone. But the dysfunction between Brown and the organization throughout 2025 doesn't simply disappear because the offseason arrived.

The Eagles face legitimate questions about Brown's contract, his relationship with the coaching staff, and whether his presence helps or hurts the locker room chemistry they desperately need to rebuild.

Reading Between the Lines

If Brown truly wanted to make a trade impossible, he would have. He didn't. That tells you everything about where this situation is headed. The Eagles may prefer to keep him, but both sides appear to be preparing for life apart.

Watch for trade rumors to heat up once free agency opens. Don't be surprised if Brown lands in a new city before the draft.