The A.J. Brown era in Philadelphia is officially over. The Eagles sent their star wide receiver to the New England Patriots in a blockbuster deal that nets them a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick. While the trade itself is massive, the real story this week has been Brown finally addressing the simmering whispers about his connection with quarterback Jalen Hurts.
In an exclusive sit-down with NBC's Maria Taylor on 7PM in Brooklyn, Brown didn't dodge the question. He acknowledged that he and Hurts aren't as tight as they once were. “Not as close as we once were,” Brown admitted. “And I believe that’s fine. There’s no bad blood. There’s actually still a lot of love. I love him. I love him to death. I want him to succeed.”
Brown made it clear that the public fixation on their friendship never made sense to him. He pointed out that they haven't been as close for a couple of years, yet that never stopped them from competing or leading the team. “It was just kind of strange, people just got so fixated on the relationship,” he said. “I’m going to say it to you, I’m going to say it on camera: I got nothing but love for him.”
His departure from Philly comes after a season where Brown's frustration with his role was visible on the field. But according to the receiver, that had nothing to do with any rift with Hurts. He insists the bond is still strong, even if it's not what it used to be. “I want him to succeed and accomplish all the things that he wants to accomplish,” Brown added.
Now, Brown is heading to New England, where he'll reunite with head coach Mike Vrabel — the same coach who drafted him in Tennessee. He'll also get to work with young quarterback Drake Maye, one of the most promising arms in the league. The change of scenery could be exactly what Brown needs to reignite his career.
During his time with the Eagles, Brown racked up 339 catches for 5,034 yards and 32 touchdowns. There's no question he's one of the premier playmakers at his position. The Patriots are hoping he can bring that same explosiveness to their offense. While the trade has been the talk of the league, the negotiations reportedly hit a wall over the 2027 pick before both sides finally agreed.
For Eagles fans, the chapter closes with a thank you from Brown himself. “Playing for this city has been an honor, and I’m thankful for every moment I had in midnight green,” he wrote on Instagram. “Thank you, Philly. Much love always. God bless.”
Whether the Patriots made the right move remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: A.J. Brown is ready for a fresh start. And he's leaving Philadelphia with nothing but love for the quarterback he once called a close friend.
