Who Should I Start? A.J. Brown or George Pickens

Thursday, May 28, 8:19 AM

Although the Philadelphia Eagles are expected to trade wide receiver A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots after Monday, June, 1, the two sides are "not particularly close" to pulling something off immediately next week, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network. The Eagles want a 2027 first-rounder in exchange for Brown, and the Patriots reportedly do not want to give up a 2027 first-rounder, as of right now. New England remains the most likely destination for Brown before the 2026 regular season, but another suitor could emerge if the Eagles and Patriots are struggling to work out a deal that pleases both sides. Schefter said that trade talks surrounding Brown could drag on for the "foreseeable future." The Eagles' moves this offseason -- trading for Dontayvion Wicks and drafting Makai Lemon in the first round -- have all pointed to Brown being moved, so that's still the likely resolution. The Pats signed Romeo Doubs in free agency, but they also cut Stefon Diggs and are looking for a true No. 1 wideout like Brown. Brown had his sixth 1,000-receiving season in 2025, but he averaged a career-low 12.9 yards per catch in 15 starts in his fourth and likely last year in Philly.