Patriots Exec Addresses A.J. Brown, Eagles Trade Rumors

New England considering options to improve roster ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:21pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, their body fractured into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conveying the strategic maneuvering of an NFL team's offseason.The Patriots' front office considers bold moves to reshape their roster ahead of the upcoming draft.Philadelphia Today

New England Patriots' executive vice president of player personnel, Eliot Wolf, was asked about the persistent rumors linking the team to a potential trade for Philadelphia Eagles' wide receiver A.J. Brown. While Wolf declined to comment directly on players from other teams, he told reporters the Patriots will keep their options open regarding any moves that could improve the roster.

Why it matters

The Patriots are looking to bounce back after a disappointing 2025 season, and acquiring a top-tier wide receiver like Brown could provide a major boost to their offense. However, any potential trade would likely require significant draft capital, so the team must weigh the costs and benefits carefully.

The details

Wolf was noncommittal when asked about the A.J. Brown trade rumors, saying the Patriots won't comment on players from other teams. But he did indicate the team will explore all avenues to improve the roster, including potential trades, ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

  • The comments from Eliot Wolf came on Monday, April 13, 2026.

The players

Eliot Wolf

The executive vice president of player personnel for the New England Patriots.

A.J. Brown

The star wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, who has been the subject of persistent trade rumors linking him to the Patriots.

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What they’re saying

“We'll keep the door open with the player you mentioned or anybody else that can help us improve our team.”

— Eliot Wolf, Executive Vice President of Player Personnel, New England Patriots

What’s next

The Patriots will likely continue to monitor the trade market and evaluate their options as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches. Any potential deal for A.J. Brown or another top receiver would be a major storyline leading up to the draft.

The takeaway

The Patriots are clearly looking to upgrade their receiving corps this offseason, and A.J. Brown is one of the top talents potentially available via trade. While Wolf was coy about the specifics, the team's willingness to explore all options to improve the roster suggests they could make a bold move before the draft.