A.J. Brown Traded to the Patriots

by Zak Drapeau

Sportz Nation - 6/2/2026

Photo Credits to Mark Konezny via Imagn Images

It's FINALLY happened Patriots fans, A.J. Brown is now the new Patriots, no. 1 receiver.

After the June 1st distinction of the new season, the Eagles have traded their 28-year old receiver for a 2027, 5th-round pick and 2028, 1st-round pick.

After 4 seasons in Philadelphia including a win at Super Bowl LIX, Brown and his team had mutually decided to part ways after Brown became cryptic on social media and an overall distraction within the team's locker room over a reported desire to have a bigger role in the Eagles' offense.

Brown's "selfishness" can be looked at as a glass half full within New England's organization. As an extremely talented receiver, Brown should be the focal point of the Patriots' offense especially after a 2025 season that saw sophomore QB Drake Maye take a step towards being one of the league's best at his position.

The trade itself was better for Patriots' fans than first thought. With a rumored 2027, 1st-round pick being the compensation, to push that price tag back another year is great. With Drake Maye's rookie contract going for another 2 seasons, this means the Pats will have yet another 1st-round pick to make within that time frame as their Super Bowl window is clearly now and the team looks ready to aim for that goal.

So how will A.J. Brown do in his new colors?

Well, with Stefon Diggs being a one-year rental last season and going for 85, 1013 and 4, I expect A.J. Brown to improve on those numbers. How much is hearsay and should also factor in the added competition in 2026. With the Patriots having the statistical-easiest schedule of all time on their way to Super Bowl LX, I fully expect the team to take a step down this year. With Brown on the roster that "step down" should be less significant but at least offensively is noticeable.

I'll go out on a limb and predict Brown getting 135 targets for 100 receptions, 1,250 yards and 8 TDs in 2026-27. I also think the Patriots go 9-8 and lose in the Wild Card Weekend.

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Make sure to stay tuned as we continue coverage of the 2026 NFL Offseason and New England Patriots.

-Z.D.