Eagles reportedly to 'operate' 2026 NFL Draft as if A.J. Brown won't be in Philly Week 1

"The New England Patriots remain the frontrunner to acquire the All Pro receiver, and what has been true all offseason continues to be true today as it relates to his contract."

"But what sources have pointed out to me is that Brown has done nothing publicly to try to punch his way out of Philly, and those sources have theorized that Brown may (have) an understanding that a deal will take place at some point in the summer."

"The Eagles are going to operate next week's 2026 NFL Draft with the understanding that A.J. Brown will not be with the team come Week 1 later this year."

A.J. Brown remains with the Philadelphia Eagles, but reports suggest a trade could occur after June 1, when the Eagles gain salary cap relief. Trading Brown before this date would result in a $43.5 million dead cap hit, while a post-June 1 deal would reduce it to $16 million. The Patriots are considered the leading candidates to acquire Brown, who has not publicly expressed a desire to leave, indicating he may expect a trade soon. The Eagles are preparing for the offseason as if Brown will not be part of the team by Week 1.

Read at Boston.com