Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown (11) and quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) celebrate a touchdown against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown addressed his relationship with quarterback Jalen Hurts following his trade to the New England Patriots, emphasizing mutual respect despite a natural drift over time. In an interview with NBC Sports’ Maria Taylor, Brown clarified that while their bond has weakened, there is no animosity between the two former teammates.
The three-time All-Pro receiver, who was traded to the Patriots on Monday in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection, stated, “Not as close as we once were… But there’s no bad blood. I love him to death and want him to succeed.” Brown acknowledged public fascination with their dynamic, noting, “People got so fixated on our relationship, but we still competed and pushed each other.”
Brown, who has no specific incident to blame for the distance, explained, “Nothing happened. Life happens, and you just look up and realize you’ve grown apart. Both parties accepted that.” He and Hurts, who also serves as the godfather to Brown’s daughter, Jersee, spent four seasons together after Brown joined the Eagles in 2022. The duo reached two Super Bowls, winning one in 2024.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel praised Brown’s professionalism and skill, saying, “He loves football, has a physical skill set, and great body control. He’s been a productive, consistent player.” Brown, a 28-year-old three-time Pro Bowler, leaves Philadelphia with 339 receptions, 5,034 yards, and 32 touchdowns in 62 regular-season games. His 1,496 receiving yards in 2022 and 1,456 in 2023 rank second in franchise history for single-season totals.