A.J. Brown Describes First Practice with Patriots as Dreamlike Experience

The long-anticipated trade has finally taken place. On Monday, the Philadelphia Eagles sent star receiver A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a fifth-round pick in 2027. A childhood fan of the Patriots, Brown shared nostalgic images of himself in a Tom Brady jersey on social media, celebrating his newfound affiliation with the team.

During the team’s OTA session on Tuesday, Brown made a notable entrance, switching from his previous jersey number of 11 to 1. Team reporter Evan Lazar noted that Brown actively participated in positional drills and also engaged in some 11-on-11 plays. After practice, his enthusiasm was evident as he reflected on his transition to New England.

“I caught myself at one point in practice, wasn’t paying attention because I was like, ‘Dang, I’m a Patriot,'” Brown remarked during his initial press conference. “Just trying to take it all in as much as I can. Obviously, I got back to work quickly, but there’s levels to it, and like I said, I’m enjoying it. Obviously, I know this ain’t heaven, but it’s close to it.”

Despite having the opportunity to wear his beloved No. 11, which is available on the Patriots, Brown opted for No. 1, a number he wore in high school and college. He expressed his respect for Julian Edelman, who previously wore No. 11, stating that he would “create [his] own legacy” in New England. This decision highlights the pressing need for a receiver of Brown’s caliber on the Patriots, especially considering that Stefon Diggs’ 1,000-yard season in 2025 was the first for a Patriots receiver since Edelman in 2019.

Drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2019, Brown has enjoyed a successful career, including a Super Bowl win, and has consistently surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each season. While he had a slightly less productive year last season with 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns, he is now set to flourish as the primary receiver alongside quarterback Drake Maye. With Brown on the roster, the Patriots aim to rebound from their recent Super Bowl loss to Seattle and continue building their legacy.