Jason Burgos
The New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams’ rumored pursuit of a trade for AJ Brown just got much harder following the deal that sends Miami Dolphins star Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos.
One of the biggest stories in the NFL over the last few weeks has been on the future of Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown. The three-time Pro Bowler did not hide his frustration with how he was used during the 2025 season. It has created a ton of speculation that the Eagles are likely to move him this offseason.
While both the Rams and Patriots are reportedly two top contenders for the 28-year-old, rumors suggest that the current asking price is a key hurdle to getting a deal done. Well, the new trade that’s sending Jaylen Waddle to Denver will only strengthen Philadelphia’s case to demand at least a first and second-round pick in a trade for Brown.
On Tuesday, the Broncos agreed to send a first (No. 30), third, and fourth-round pick in next month’s NFL Draft for Waddle and a fourth-rounder.
Why the Jaylen Waddle trade is bad for the Patriots and Rams
The trade return for Miami is bad news for the Patriots, Rams, and any other team interested in making a trade for Brown. The hope has been that being patient and the Eagles’ current salary cap issues could lead to general manager Howie Roseman dropping his current price for the star receiver. That is now unlikely after what the Dolphins got for Waddle.
The 27-year-old is a good pass catcher and has the talent to be a true WR1. However, he benefited greatly by being on the other side of the field from future Hall of Famer Tyreek Hill. Yet, he has had just three seasons with 1,000 or more receiving yards in five years, and has never earned Pro Bowl honors.
Brown is a three-time Pro Bowler who has had under 1,000 yards receiving in just one of his seven NFL seasons. If Waddle can get a first, third, and fourth rounder, Brown should be worth much more because he has a far better resume and is only a year older. If the Patriots or Rams want Brown, it will at least cost a first and second-round draft pick.
