The Philadelphia Eagles find themselves at the center of one of the NFL offseason’s most intriguing storylines: the uncertain future of star wide receiver A.J. Brown. Reports have suggested tension between player and team, sparking speculation about a potential blockbuster trade – with the Buffalo Bills emerging as a frequent landing spot in rumors.
However, insiders believe a move may not be imminent.
According to analyst Devin Jackson, the franchise’s recent coaching adjustments could actually strengthen Brown’s chances of staying – at least for now.
…I think you got to give him a chance to try and make it work with AJ Brown and try to keep him on the roster. So, I’m leaning towards that he’s going to stay on the roster at this current juncture.
Philadelphia recently reshaped its offensive staff, promoting Sean Mannion into a larger play-calling role and adding multiple coordinators to revamp the scheme. Removing Brown immediately would undermine that transition.
Jackson also pointed to the financial reality.
“Financially, you’re going to have to eat a big cap hit potentially. So, I think he’s on a roster in September.”
Brown carries a fully guaranteed $29 million salary in 2026. Releasing him would create massive dead cap penalties – reportedly over $70 million – making a trade the only realistic exit path. Even then, the Eagles would still absorb significant financial damage.
A.J. Brown with the Eagles:
- 2022 – 88 / 1,496 / 11
- 2023 – 106 / 1,456 / 7
- 2024 – 67 / 1,079 / 7
- 2025 – 78 / 1,003 / 7
Why the Buffalo Bills are monitoring the situation
While Philadelphia weighs stability, Buffalo sees opportunity.
The Bills’ offense has long revolved around quarterback Josh Allen, but critics argue the team lacks a true No. 1 receiver capable of consistently winning elite matchups. After a disappointing postseason and internal roster questions, adding a dominant wideout has become a priority.
Sports betting analyst Pamela Maldonado believes Brown could immediately transform Buffalo’s ceiling.
Buffalo’s top priority is receiver help, and pairing him with Allen can solve its biggest limitation overnight.
Despite frustration with the Eagles’ offensive philosophy last season, Brown still delivered elite production – topping 1,000 receiving yards with seven touchdowns. His combination of size, route precision, and yards-after-catch ability makes him one of the league’s most valuable receivers.
Analysts estimate his trade value could exceed a first-round pick, meaning Buffalo would need to part with premium draft assets. But the logic is simple: maximize Allen’s prime years.
A decision likely delayed – not avoided for the Eagles
For now, Philadelphia appears committed to seeing whether its revamped offensive approach repairs the relationship. Moving Brown before the season would sabotage continuity. Yet the possibility of a midseason trade remains real if results falter.
“If things don’t go well though… I could see them moving off him before a trade deadline,” Jackson added.
That leaves the NFL in a holding pattern. The Eagles want contention stability. The Bills want a missing superstar piece. And Brown’s performance – plus team chemistry – will ultimately determine whether this offseason rumor becomes the league’s biggest in-season trade.
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