Patriots trading for A.J. Brown seems like foregone conclusion after Eagles draft WR Makai Lemon

Oct 5, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) reacts after a catch against the Denver Broncos in the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

This has to be happening.

The New England Patriots' trade plans for A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles seem like a foregone conclusion now.

The Eagles drafted a wide receiver with the No. 20 overall pick in the first round during Thursday's NFL Draft. Makai Lemon from USC is going to Philly.

Brown almost certainly is going to the Pats.

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The Eagles already added Hollywood Brown, Dontayvion Wicks and Elijah Moore this offseason. They still have DeVonta Smith, too.

And now they have Lemon.

Brown won't be traded, likely, until after June 1 for financial reasons.

But it sure seems like it's going to happen.

By trading up to draft USC WR Makai Lemon, the Eagles land more insurance for June’s expected AJ Brown trade to New England. https://t.co/z7iKPAnG4Q

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The Patriots added Romeo Doubs this offseason but let Stefon Diggs go.

They also still have Kayshon Boutte, but he's been involved in trade rumors.

Regardless, Brown could top a depth chart that also includes those two guys.

Drake Maye is getting closer and closer to having a new WR1.

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• Cardinals take a big risk with Jeremiyah Love
• Time for Fernando Mendoza to update his LinkedIn
• Browns' pick is really about Shedeur Sanders' replacement