Eagles projected to add 937-yard A.J. Brown replacement in 2026 NFL draft

Jan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) during warmups against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Eagles might have a key piece of their offense to replace in 2026.

That key piece of the offense is none other than wide receiver A.J. Brown, who has been the subject of trade rumors all offseason long.

ESPN's Field Yates has the Eagles replacing BRown in his latest mock draft that sees Philly take Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. with the No. 23 overall pick.

"Though wide receiver A.J. Brown is still with the Eagles, the fact that the team reportedly had discussions for a trade tells you it's still possible something happens after June 1, when it becomes more palatable from a salary cap standpoint. Of course, Philadelphia would be thin long term at receiver without Brown, which is where Cooper could help. He's one of the best players in space from this class, averaging 7.3 yards after the catch in 2025. Plus, he can block extremely well downfield, which would fare well for running back Saquon Barkley," he said.

Omar Cooper Jr. Scouting Report

Cooper finished up his college career with an impressive showing, as he ripped off 937 yards and 13 touchdowns on 69 catches while also adding three carries for 74 yards and another score.

The 6-foot, 199-pound wideout impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine by posting a 4.42 in the 40-yard dash, which shows he has long speed to make plays down the field. He also offers versatility with his ability to play in the slot and out wide.

One thing Cooper can do that reminds us of Brown is his ability to create yards after the catch with his strong frame, and his speed only makes him tougher to bring down in the open field when the ball is in his hands.

"Omar Cooper Jr. is a tough, alignment-versatile receiver who is a savvy route runner and has strong hands that can be relied on to be a high-end performer in clutch moments," The Draft Network's Keith Sanchez wrote.

While expecting Cooper to immediately step in as the alpha in Philly's receivers room might be expecting too much, he really doesn't have to thanks to DeVonta Smith, who would step into the No. 1 role.

When you break it all down, Cooper has all the goods to help replace Brown in the years to come and should be under strong consideration for Philly with the No. 23 pick.

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