It's no longer a question of if A.J. Brown will be traded. It's a question of when and for what.
Reports have surfaced that the Eagles could receive a 2028 first-round pick in exchange for their star receiver. But is that enough for one of the best wideouts in football?
The Current Situation
The writing has been on the wall for months. Brown's relationship with the organization has deteriorated, and both sides appear ready to move on. The Eagles drafted Makai Lemon in the first round, signaling their intent to rebuild the receiver room around DeVonta Smith.
Brown, 28, is still in the prime of his career. He's a three-time Pro Bowler who has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards in each of the past five seasons. That kind of production doesn't come cheap.
What's Brown Worth?
Let's look at recent comparable trades:
| Player | Age at Trade | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Davante Adams (2022) | 29 | 1st + 2nd round picks |
| Tyreek Hill (2022) | 28 | 1st + 2nd + 4th + 6th round picks |
| Stefon Diggs (2020) | 26 | 1st + 5th + 6th + 4th round picks |
Based on these comparables, a single first-round pick - even if it's in 2028 - feels light. Brown is a proven commodity who can immediately elevate any offense.
What Should the Eagles Demand?
If Howie Roseman is going to trade away a top-5 receiver in the NFL, he should be asking for:
Minimum package: 2027 first-round pick + 2027 third-round pick
Ideal package: 2027 first-round pick + 2028 second-round pick + young player
A 2028 first alone is simply too far away and too uncertain. The Eagles need assets they can use sooner to maximize Jalen Hurts' window.
Potential Trade Partners
Several teams make sense as destinations:
Buffalo Bills: Josh Allen needs weapons. They have the draft capital.
Cincinnati Bengals: Looking to reload around Joe Burrow.
Los Angeles Chargers: Jim Harbaugh wants to win now.
New York Jets: Always aggressive, desperate for a playmaker.
The Bottom Line
A.J. Brown is going to be traded. That much seems certain. But the Eagles shouldn't settle for a discount. Brown is worth a premium package, and Howie Roseman knows it.
If a team only wants to offer a 2028 first? Let Brown sit until someone pays up.
What do you think the Eagles should demand for A.J. Brown? Let us know on social media.