The New England Patriots didn’t just win a playoff game this weekend - they made a statement. Their 28-16 victory over the Texans wasn’t just their second postseason win since hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl LIII; it was a sign that this team is back in the mix and ready to contend.
But the Patriots’ weekend win wasn’t the only development working in their favor. Some unexpected help may have come from the NFC - and from a familiar face in Philadelphia.
The Eagles’ season came to a crashing halt with a loss to the 49ers, and the fallout could have ripple effects across the league, especially in New England. Star wide receiver A.J.
Brown had a night to forget, catching just three of his seven targets for 25 yards - his lowest output since 2021. He also dropped two passes, matching his total for the entire regular season.
Add in a heated sideline exchange with head coach Nick Sirianni, and it’s fair to say tensions in Philly are boiling over.
Now, the Eagles face a tough offseason. Whether it’s Brown pushing for a trade or the front office deciding to move on, there’s growing buzz that the Pro Bowl receiver could be on the move. And if that happens, the Patriots are among the top destinations being floated - and for good reason.
New England is in a prime position to make a splash. They’ve got the cap space (ninth-most effective room in the league), they’ve got the draft capital (12 picks), and they’ve got a clear need for a true No. 1 receiver. Brown checks every box - physical, explosive, reliable - and would immediately elevate an already potent offense that’s heading to the AFC Championship.
The Patriots aren’t the only team that would be interested. The Bills, Ravens, Chargers, and even the 49ers have been mentioned as potential suitors.
But New England might be the most logical fit. They’re built to win now, and pairing Brown with Stefon Diggs would give them one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the league.
Throw in a solid third option like Mack Hollins, Kyle Williams, or Pop Douglas, and suddenly you’re looking at a passing attack that could keep defensive coordinators up at night.
Of course, any trade for Brown wouldn’t come cheap. His contract is hefty, and the Eagles would likely be looking for significant value in return - though maybe not as much as you’d think, given the financial burden a team would be taking on.
A rumored midseason offer from the Patriots - a second-round pick and wideout Kayshon Boutte - could be back on the table. Boutte has flashed as a deep threat, but he’s not on Brown’s level.
Still, the Eagles might see value in a young, controllable receiver and a high pick.
Another option? A package centered around Pop Douglas and a later-round pick, like a fifth. That would allow New England to keep Boutte and slide Brown into the WR1 role, with Diggs working primarily out of the slot - a setup that could be lethal, especially considering the Patriots are undefeated this season when Diggs tops 100 receiving yards.
Bottom line: adding A.J. Brown would be a game-changer.
He’s a proven difference-maker who could take this Patriots offense - already ranked second in the league - to another level. With the right offer and the right fit, this is a move that makes sense for both sides.
And if New England can pull it off, they won’t just be a playoff team - they’ll be a legitimate Super Bowl threat.