Eagles Weigh Options on A.J. Brown's Future Ahead of NFL Draft

Philadelphia's draft strategy could signal whether star receiver will remain with the team.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 4:33pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in mid-stride, with the player's body and the football itself broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a palette of dark blue, green, and orange, conveying the complex decisions facing the Eagles regarding their star wide receiver.The Eagles' draft strategy could reshape the future of star receiver A.J. Brown.Philadelphia Today

The Philadelphia Eagles face a critical decision on the future of star wide receiver A.J. Brown as they approach the 2026 NFL Draft. Brown has been a dominant force for the Eagles, topping 1,000 receiving yards in each of his four seasons with the team. However, there are indications the Eagles may be open to trading Brown for the right price, especially if they use an early draft pick on another top receiver prospect.

Why it matters

A.J. Brown's potential departure would be a major blow to the Eagles' offense, as he has been one of the league's most productive receivers since joining the team. However, the Eagles have already added several new receivers this offseason, suggesting they may be preparing for life after Brown. The team's draft strategy will provide crucial insight into their plans for the star wideout.

The details

The Eagles have eight picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, including the 23rd overall selection in the first round. If the team uses that pick on a top receiver prospect, it could indicate they are preparing to move on from Brown. The Eagles would face significant salary cap implications by trading Brown this year, but could potentially get more value by dealing him after June 1. Philadelphia has already added receivers Dontayvion Wicks, 'Hollywood' Brown, and Elijah Moore this offseason, suggesting they may feel they can replace A.J. Brown's production.

  • The Eagles have eight picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, including the 23rd overall selection in the first round.
  • A.J. Brown topped 1,000 receiving yards in each of his four seasons with the Eagles.

The players

A.J. Brown

A three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver who has been one of the most productive players in the Eagles' offense since joining the team in 2022.

Jalen Hurts

The Eagles' starting quarterback, who has developed a strong rapport with A.J. Brown.

Howie Roseman

The Eagles' general manager, who has indicated the team is open to trading Brown for the right price.

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What they’re saying

“A.J. Brown is an Eagle.”

— Howie Roseman, General Manager

“That was one of the priorities going into this offseason is increasing the depth of quality of talent in the receiver room throughout the room.”

— Howie Roseman, General Manager

What’s next

The Eagles will have a better sense of A.J. Brown's future with the team after the 2026 NFL Draft, as their selection of a wide receiver in the early rounds could signal their willingness to part ways with the star receiver.

The takeaway

The Eagles' approach to the 2026 NFL Draft will be crucial in determining whether A.J. Brown remains in Philadelphia long-term. The team's decision to invest an early pick in a receiver prospect could indicate they are preparing for life after Brown, though the significant salary cap implications of trading him this year may complicate the situation.