Former Super Bowl champion Seth Joyner didn’t hold back when asked about A.J. Brown’s behavior this season-and his comments have added fuel to an already simmering conversation in Philadelphia.
Appearing on the 94WIP Morning Show, the ex-Eagles linebacker called out Brown for what he described as “diva-like” tendencies, pointing to moments earlier in the season when the wide receiver voiced frustration about not getting the ball enough. Joyner didn’t mince words, suggesting that Brown’s concerns were more about personal stats than team success.
“When he was getting the ball regularly-nine-plus targets, a touchdown-no complaints,” Joyner said. “But when the targets dry up, suddenly it’s an issue?
That tells me it’s not about the team. It’s about him.”
Joyner even shared that a Hall of Fame wide receiver told him the Eagles might be better off without Brown, a bold statement considering Brown’s production. The argument? If defenses are locking in on Brown and that opens up opportunities for others, shouldn’t a true team player be happy with the win, even if their own stat line takes a hit?
That’s the heart of this debate: personal production vs. team success. And in Philly, where expectations are sky-high and scrutiny never sleeps, it’s a conversation that won’t go away quietly.
Tension in the Locker Room?
Brown’s frustration hasn’t existed in a vacuum. Reports have surfaced suggesting some friction between him and quarterback Jalen Hurts. And it’s not just Brown-there’s been chatter that some within the organization, including coaches and teammates, have taken issue with Hurts’ approach on the field.
That said, the numbers don’t lie: Brown’s been more involved lately. Over the last two games, despite back-to-back losses to the Cowboys and the Bears, he’s seen an uptick in targets.
Most notably, in Friday’s 24-15 loss to Ben Johnson’s Bears, Brown turned in his best performance of the season-10 catches for 132 yards and two touchdowns. That’s the kind of stat line that reminds everyone just how dangerous he can be when he’s in rhythm.
The Hurts Factor
A key piece of this puzzle is Hurts’ playing style. The Eagles’ offense has leaned heavily on the quarterback’s legs, and that’s led to questions about whether the passing game-and by extension, Brown-is being underutilized.
Against the Bears, Hurts completed just 19 of 34 passes for 230 yards, though he did connect with Brown for both of his touchdown throws. Still, the run-heavy approach has fueled criticism, including from analyst Eric Sollenberger, who didn’t hold back after the Week 13 loss.
“I’m beginning to think maybe A.J. Brown has been right about everything,” Sollenberger posted on X. “He might be the only sane person alive and we’re all the crazy ones.”
That sentiment echoes what many Eagles fans have been wondering: Is Brown speaking uncomfortable truths about the offense, or is this just another case of a star receiver wanting more touches?
Where the Eagles Stand
Despite the noise, Philly still sits atop the NFC East with an 8-4 record. The recent skid has raised eyebrows, but this team remains firmly in the playoff picture.
The next test? A Monday night showdown with the Chargers at 8:15 p.m.
ET.
The spotlight will be on Brown and Hurts once again-and not just for what they do on the field. How they respond to the pressure, the criticism, and each other could say a lot about where this Eagles team is headed down the stretch.
Because in December, it’s not just about talent. It’s about chemistry, leadership, and whether your stars are pulling in the same direction.