The question at the forefront of NFL discussions is whether A.J. Brown will be traded, particularly given his ongoing knee issues. Recent insights from insiders, including Tom E. Curran, suggest that these health concerns are significantly affecting trade negotiations.
A.J. Brown, who will turn 29 in June, has been dealing with knee problems since his tenure with the Tennessee Titans. Reports indicate that he required his knee to be drained twice a week late in the 2024 season, raising red flags for potential suitors.
The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly seeking a first-round pick and a second-round pick for Brown. However, the Los Angeles Rams recently backed out of trade talks due to worries about his knee condition, as noted by Curran. “The Rams — reportedly and behind closed doors, the people I’ve talked to — they passed on him because of the condition of his knee,” Curran stated.
In 2025, Brown recorded 1,003 receiving yards, marking his lowest output since 2021. This decline in performance, coupled with his injury history, complicates the Eagles’ position in trade discussions.
Mike Vrabel, head coach of the Titans, emphasized the importance of strengthening rosters, stating, “Anything we can continue to do to strengthen our roster, we’re going to try to do.” This sentiment underscores the competitive nature of the league as teams weigh their options.
Financially, the Eagles face a significant decision. If they trade Brown before June 1, they would incur a dead cap hit of over $40 million in 2026. However, if they wait until after June 1, that figure drops to below $20 million, making a post-June trade more appealing.
As the situation develops, the condition of A.J. Brown’s knee remains a pivotal factor. Phil Perry remarked, “If A.J. Brown’s knees look great, then a first and a second doesn’t sound all that terrible in terms of picks going out.” This highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between potential gains and the risks associated with Brown’s health.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final outcomes of these trade discussions, but the implications for both Brown and the teams involved are significant. As the NFL landscape continues to shift, all eyes will be on how the situation unfolds in the coming weeks.
