The Eagles completed the trade of receiver A.J. Brown to the Patriots on Monday, sending a 2028 first‑round pick and a 2027 fifth‑round pick, after which Philadelphia general manager Howie Roseman addressed reporters.
In Roseman’s view, a first‑round pick retains its value regardless of whether it is acquired in 2026, 2027, or 2028.
Roseman explained, “For us to acquire a 2026 pick — a late first‑round selection — and factor in the cap implications of a pre‑June‑1 trade, it made sense for us to look at future picks.” He added, “We’ve always operated under the principle that a pick is a pick — a first‑round pick is a first‑round pick. It doesn’t change. Teams will continue to play football in 2028.”
While some teams view a future first‑round selection as equivalent to a current second‑round pick, if the Patriots underperform in 2027, the 2028 pick could be considerably higher than the 31st overall slot the Eagles would have held in 2026.
Moreover, the overall quality of the 2028 draft class compared to 2027 remains uncertain at this stage.
The Eagles would have ideally secured a first‑round pick in 2027.
Nevertheless, obtaining any first‑round pick for a player who no longer desired to stay with the Eagles — and whom the team also wished to part with — proved advantageous. After months of speculation that their relationship had run its course, the Eagles finally completed the trade.
Roseman said, “From our perspective, securing a first‑round pick — and ultimately acquiring two first‑round selections in 2028 — represents a major component of this deal. He emphasized that multiple first‑round picks are a game‑changing asset for building the roster, expressing strong confidence that those picks are the most valuable resources for team development. While the 2027 draft draws considerable attention, he believes the 2028 class will also be strong, positioning the team to significantly improve its football operations.”
This represents a balanced view of the transaction. The Eagles obtained just four seasons with Brown before trading away the first‑round pick they gave up in 2022, and his contributions were instrumental in securing a Super Bowl victory.
Had they retained the pick, they might have acquired a player poised to enter his prime in 2026. Instead, after four years with Brown, they will receive a first‑round selection six years after the original pick they surrendered to acquire him.