Patriots Receiver Expresses Excitement Over Potential A.J. Brown Trade

The NFL is abuzz with speculation regarding a possible trade that would send star wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles to the New England Patriots after June 1. Acquiring a player of Brown's stature—a three-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, and Super Bowl champion—could significantly boost the Patriots' chances of returning to the Super Bowl next season.

Currently, the Patriots have 12 wide receivers under contract for the 2026 season. DeMario Douglas, one of those receivers, shared his thoughts on the possible addition of Brown during a press conference on Sunday evening, just before the anticipated trade. “If he comes, that’d be amazing,” Douglas stated. “He’s a good guy. I follow him on Instagram to see what he does. He’s a ball-player too.”

Douglas had a standout year in 2024, with 66 receptions for 621 yards and three touchdowns. However, his performance dipped in the following season after the arrival of Stefon Diggs, resulting in 35 fewer catches and nearly 200 yards lost. Should Brown join the team, Douglas could find himself further down the depth chart.

This offseason, the Patriots secured Romeo Doubs with a four-year, $68 million deal, likely positioning him as the WR2 behind Brown. Douglas would then compete with Kayshon Boutte, who had 33 catches for 551 yards and six touchdowns, alongside Mack Hollins, who recorded 46 catches and 550 yards, for the WR3 role.

Rumors of Brown's potential move to New England have circulated for months, largely due to his previous relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel from their time with the Tennessee Titans. The Patriots are reportedly the only team willing to meet the Eagles' steep asking price, which includes a first-round draft pick. Following the release of Diggs, who accumulated 1,013 receiving yards and 85 catches last season, the Patriots' receiving corps appears poised for significant improvement in 2026.