The New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams have discussed trading for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown in recent weeks, Dianna Russini and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic report.
New England and Los Angeles are still making strong pushes to land Brown, according to Russini.
However, a trade involving the star wideout isn't imminent despite the Rams and Patriots engaging in serious conversations with the Eagles, sources told Russini. While both teams remain interested in acquiring Brown, it's reportedly more likely that negotiations could pick up closer to June 1.
Philadelphia would save $7 million in salary cap space and would take on $16.3 million in dead money if Brown is traded after June 1, according to Over the Cap.
The Rams, who recently used a first-round pick to trade for cornerback Trent McDuffie, apparently discussed dealing for Brown before acquiring McDuffie. Although talks have slowed, Los Angeles continues to monitor the wideout's status, sources told Russini and Rodrigue.
The Patriots, looking for help at wide receiver, signed Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $70-million contract this week. However, that reportedly didn't preclude their pursuit of Brown.
New England and Philadelphia engaged in trade talks about the three-time Pro Bowl receiver but couldn't reach an agreement, according to Russini and Rodrigue. The Eagles are apparently eyeing first- and second-round picks in any potential deal for their top pass-catcher.
Brown has been the subject of trade rumors for months, having expressed frustration with his role in the Eagles' offense several times in the last two seasons.
Adding an established No. 1 receiver became a priority for the Patriots after they parted ways with Stefon Diggs.
Meanwhile, the Rams are expected to be aggressive this offseason as they look to make another deep playoff run in quarterback Matthew Stafford's potential final NFL season. Los Angeles still owns the No. 13 overall pick in the 2026 draft.
