Patriots Coach Addresses A.J. Brown Trade Rumors

Vrabel comments on high-profile NFL offseason moves

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:22am

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New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel addressed the recent trade rumors surrounding star wide receiver A.J. Brown, who has been the subject of speculation as the NFL offseason continues. Vrabel commented on a number of high-profile player moves across the league, including trades involving Trent McDuffie, David Montgomery, and DJ Moore.

Why it matters

The Patriots are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and the status of their receiving corps is a key storyline. Vrabel's comments provide insight into the team's thinking as they navigate the offseason and look to build a contending roster for the 2026 campaign.

The details

Vrabel did not directly confirm or deny the A.J. Brown trade rumors, stating only that the team is "excited about" the players they currently have. The Patriots have been linked to Brown, who played under Vrabel when he was an assistant coach with the Tennessee Titans. Other notable offseason moves mentioned by Vrabel include the trades of Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams, David Montgomery to the Houston Texans, and DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills.

  • The comments from Vrabel were made on April 1, 2026.

The players

Mike Vrabel

Head coach of the New England Patriots.

A.J. Brown

Star wide receiver who has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason.

Trent McDuffie

Cornerback traded from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Los Angeles Rams.

David Montgomery

Running back traded from the Detroit Lions to the Houston Texans.

DJ Moore

Wide receiver traded from the Chicago Bears to the Buffalo Bills.

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What they’re saying

“There's a lot of guys that we're excited about”

— Mike Vrabel, Head Coach, New England Patriots

The takeaway

Vrabel's comments suggest the Patriots are closely monitoring the trade market and potential roster moves, but are focused on the players currently on their team as they look to bounce back in 2026. The status of the receiving corps, particularly the potential addition of A.J. Brown, will be a key storyline to follow as the offseason progresses.