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Finding elite NFL talent is like striking gold, and Eagles GM Howie Roseman made it clear he isn’t looking to part ways with star wideout A.J. Brown anytime soon.
“It is hard to find great players in the NFL, and A.J. is a great player,” Roseman said Thursday during his end-of-season press conference alongside coach Nick Sirianni. “That’s what we’re hunting for in free agency and the draft – guys who love football and bring that special talent. He’s that guy.”
Brown has been a statistical machine since arriving in Philly, topping 1,000 yards for the fourth straight season. He finished 2025 with 78 catches, 1,003 yards and 7 touchdowns.
The frustration has been real, though.
The three-time Pro Bowler posted cryptic social media messages early in the season and went silent with media as the year progressed. His mid-November sideline conversation with CEO Jeffrey Lurie – where he reportedly promised to stop airing grievances publicly – became a turning point in his approach.
Brown’s playoff performance against San Francisco left something to be desired (just three catches for 25 yards with two drops), but his overall impact on the franchise can’t be overstated. He’s the only Eagle in team history with multiple 1,400+ yard receiving seasons – setting the two highest single-season marks ever for the franchise.
This isn’t the first time trade speculation has swirled around Brown. When similar questions popped up before November’s trade deadline, Roseman defended his star with similar conviction.
“When you’re trying to be a great team, it’s hard to trade great players,” Roseman explained. “He wears a ‘C’ for a reason. He’s crucial to this organization and cares deeply about winning and his teammates. When you’re looking to compete for championships, you just don’t get rid of guys like that.”
The Eagles clearly view Brown as a cornerstone piece – someone they traded for and immediately signed to a massive extension before the 2022 season. Despite the occasional drama, his production and leadership appear to have him firmly in Philadelphia’s long-term plans.
