In a significant move, the Philadelphia Eagles traded A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots for future draft picks. This decision followed an uneven 2025 season for both Brown and the Eagles’ offense. Observers noted a decline in the relationship between star quarterback Jalen Hurts and receiver Brown.
Despite Brown’s relocation, questions about his relationship with Hurts persist. During recent joint practices between the Patriots and Eagles, Brown was asked if he had spoken to Hurts since his move to New England. His response was a simple and direct “No.”
Hurts, typically reticent on the matter, chose a different approach in a GQ interview. When asked about the nature of his relationship with Brown, Hurts admitted there had been changes.
“There’s no surprise that it was talked about,” Hurts remarked, acknowledging the shift.
Hurts and Brown, seen celebrating together in a game against the Tennessee Titans in December 2022, were once close. Hurts, MVP of Super Bowl LIX, confirmed the changes Brown mentioned.
In June, Brown addressed the distance between him and Hurts in an informal podcast setting, attributing it to natural drifting apart as opposed to specific incidents.
Brown stressed that there were no disputes involving their families or other personal elements.
“Life happens, and sometimes you drift apart. Both parties accepted that,” Brown explained.
Despite the tensions, Brown and Hurts caught up during the second joint practice in Foxborough, Massachusetts. Brown urged reporters to focus on positive aspects rather than stirring negative narratives.
He emphasized the importance of positivity, stating, “Let’s keep everything positive. It’s love my way.” Hurts echoed this sentiment, professing continued affection for Brown.
Brown, notable for setting the highest single-season receiving yardage in Eagles history, fondly recalls his time in Philadelphia, where he helped secure a Super Bowl win and achieved remarkable records of 1,496 and 1,456 receiving yards in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Brown’s dissatisfaction, however, arose partly from feeling underutilized in schemes involving zone coverage. This frustration manifested in comments both on social media and during media appearances.
After Philadelphia’s exit from the wildcard round at the hands of the 49ers, Brown requested a change, expressing a need for a new opportunity. General Manager Howie Roseman confirmed Brown’s desire for fresh beginnings. Sources linked Brown’s issues to Hurts and play-calling dynamics.
Brown retains positive memories of his connection with the Eagles, stating that his focus is now on delivering with the Patriots. His gratitude for his experience in Philadelphia remains intact.
“It’s love. I won a Super Bowl ring with them. I will always love Philly,” Brown reflected.
In a nod to their history, Hurts once hosted Brown on a recruiting visit to Alabama. Through offseason sessions, their friendship grew, culminating in Hurts becoming godfather to Brown’s daughter, Jersee.
The Eagles will begin their regular season on September 13 against the Washington Commanders. The Patriots face the Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks for their 2026 opener on September 9.
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