A.J. Brown Traded to Patriots: Tom Brady Weighs In on Eagles Departure

A.J. Brown is heading to the New England Patriots after a blockbuster trade from the Philadelphia Eagles. The deal, finalized this offseason, sent a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to Philadelphia in exchange for the star wide receiver. Tom Brady, who knows a thing or two about NFL drama, called the move 'Déjà Vu,' comparing it to the league's recurring offseason sagas.

What Happened in the Trade?

The Eagles shipped A.J. Brown to the Patriots after a frustrating 2025 season. Brown, who finished as the No. 7 wide receiver in PFN's WR Impact Metric, tallied 78 catches for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns. However, his yards after the catch and average depth of target declined, fueling trade rumors.

Why It Matters for A.J. Brown

Brady believes the change in scheme will unlock Brown’s full potential. 'A.J. wanted to be involved,' Brady said on the 'New Heights' podcast. 'That passing offense isn’t what that team’s known for.' In New England, Brown joins a more pass-heavy system under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.

What Comes Next for Brown in New England?

Brown reunites with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel, his former coach with the Tennessee Titans. The move pairs him with young quarterback Drake Maye. Brady sees this as a fresh start: 'There will be maybe a little more satisfaction from him from that standpoint.'