Philadelphia Eagles and A.J. Brown Part Ways Amid Friendship Questions

Philadelphia Eagles’ decision to trade A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots marks a significant shift for both the team and their franchise quarterback, Jalen Hurts. The trade was completed in exchange for future draft picks after an uneven season in 2025. This change raised questions about the relationship between Hurts and Brown, once considered close friends.

During recent joint practices between the Patriots and the Eagles, reporters approached Brown about his communication with Hurts since the trade. Brown’s response was concise: “No.” Even as time passes, speculation about their friendship remains.

While Hurts typically avoids discussing his bond with Brown, he shared his perspective in a recent interview with GQ. When asked if he and Brown maintained their closeness post-trade, Hurts acknowledged the shift, saying, “There’s no surprise that it was talked about.” This admission aligns with Brown’s previous remarks from last month regarding their relationship.

“I mean, clearly,” Hurts expressed when affirming Brown’s prior comments.

Brown previously clarified in June that no specific incident caused their rift. On the “7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony” podcast, Brown explained that their separation was a natural part of life. “Nothing happened, people just grow apart,” he stated, emphasizing there were no conflicts involving families or personal events.

During the joint practices, Brown and Hurts interacted, suggesting some level of cordiality between the two. Brown encouraged media to focus on positivity rather than lingering on negative narratives. He voiced, “You all should want to report something positive. It’s love my way.” Hurts reciprocated with affection, saying, “I’ve got a lot of love for him and always have.”

Brown’s legacy in Philadelphia includes holding the team’s highest single-season receiving yardage records: 1,496 yards in 2022 and 1,456 yards in 2023. Despite drama, the Eagles clinched their second Vince Lombardi Trophy afterward.

Philadelphia’s season ended in disappointment in the wild-card round, losing to the San Francisco 49ers. Sources revealed Brown’s desire for change arose from frustrations about his offensive role and interactions with Hurts during zone coverage situations.

Brown made several comments reflecting frustration during the 2025 season, but he expressed gratitude for his tenure in Philadelphia. “It’s love. I won a Super Bowl ring with them,” Brown said, indicating fondness while also shifting focus to his new role with the Patriots.

The friendship between Hurts and Brown predates their Eagles tenure. Hurts hosted Brown for a recruiting visit at Alabama and became the godfather to Brown’s daughter. Despite their professional split, mutual respect appears to remain.

The Eagles are set to commence their season at home against the Washington Commanders on September 13. Meanwhile, the Patriots will visit the Seattle Seahawks for their opener on September 9.

Chantz Martin, writer for Fox News Digital, contributed to this report.