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Stephen A. Smith gives bold A.J. Brown vs. Stefon Diggs verdict amid Patriots trade buzz; ‘He clearly…’
A.J. Brown's history with Mike Vrabel dates back to his 2019 Titans debut, fueling speculation about a potential reunion with the New England Patriots.
For the past several months, speculation has linked Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown to a potential move to the New England Patriots.
The rumors gained traction largely because Brown previously played under current Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel. Brown entered the league in 2019 with the Tennessee Titans and played under then-head coach Vrabel during the early years of his professional career.
Some reports have suggested Brown could end up in New England by June 1, 2026, a key date on the NFL calendar that carries significant salary-cap implications for teams considering major roster moves.
Stephen A. Smith's blunt take on Brown rumors
Now, ESPN journalist Stephen A. Smith has weighed in on the speculation, offering a blunt assessment of the potential trade that would reunite Eagles wide receiver with his former coach Vrabel, in New England.
“Obviously, A.J. Brown wants to be back with Vrabel, and he clearly believes he's better than Stefon Diggs,” Stephen A. Smith said during Monday's episode of ESPN's First Take.
He also mentioned that, “I know it’s going to happen and it’s necessary.”
Brown to Patriots rumors center on June 1
Meanwhile, the trade speculation was also a topic on Monday's live stream of The Pat McAfee Show, where the host referenced NFL insider Adam Schefter suggesting that a trade sending Brown to the New England Patriots could happen within the next 24 hours.
Also read: Mike Vrabel's behavior after Dianna Russini controversy revealed by Patriots star
There have also been unconfirmed reports linking A.J. Brown to Massachusetts.
During a previous episode of Felger & Mazz, Jim Murray of 98.5 The Sports Hub claimed he had heard Brown was exploring condos in Boston. However, it remains part of the broader rumor mill surrounding Brown's future.
Why Brown trade rumors remain unresolved
One of the main reasons a trade has not materialized is the salary cap impact. Brown's contract would have on the Eagles' salary-cap situation.
According to a report from Sports Illustrated, trading A.J. Brown before June 1 would have forced the Eagles to absorb his full $43 million dead-cap hit in 2026.
By waiting until after 4 p.m. on June 1, however, Philadelphia can spread that charge over two years, with $16.4 million counting against the 2026 cap and the remaining $27.1 million deferred to 2027.
The Eagles would reportedly seek a first-round draft pick as part of any deal involving Brown, setting a high asking price for teams interested in acquiring the 28-year-old wide receiver.
Also read: Ex-USA Today NFL reporter alleges ‘wider issue’ in Vrabel-Russini saga: 'at least half a dozen…'
At 28, Brown remained one of the league's top receivers in 2025, finishing the season with 78 catches for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns.
He also played a key role in helping the Eagles capture the Super Bowl title during the 2024–25 NFL season, adding a championship to his already impressive résumé.
