It's amazing how fast things change in the NFL. The Philadelphia Eagles just won the Super Bowl last year, but this time around, they failed to make it past the first round of the playoffs. Wild Card weekend often produces upsets, and this year was no different. Frustrations have been boiling over within the Eagles' offense for most of the season, and it could lead to multiple roster changes.
Their star receiver, A.J. Brown, has been in the spotlight for many reasons this campaign. He has butted heads within the locker room on a handful of occasions as his role within their offense has slowed down. Despite having a 'down year', Brown produced strong numbers.
With ties to the Pittsburgh Steelers, it's possible that he could become a top trade target to help boost their offense.
Many teams around the NFL would come calling if the Eagles made the difficult decisions of parting with their star offensive weapon. His role has started to diminish in recent years, and that is cause for concern. A new environment might be best for both parties, especially after Brown quickly departed the locker room after their playoff loss.
Things could get ugly before a trade is even discussed.
Pittsburgh Steelers' top trade target after the playoffs could be elite WR A.J. Brown
Frustrations boiled over for Brown during their playoff loss, where he produced a mediocre stat line. He caught three passes off seven targets for only 25 yards. That is not enough production for their star receiver, and it's something he has struggled with this season. Unless something changes in the offseason to cement his status with a bigger role on Philadelphia's offense, this could be bad.
Brown played under Pittsburgh's offensive coordinator, Arthur Smith, in the same role during their time together at the Tennessee Titans. He and former college teammate DK Metcalf are similar players, and could use their known friendship to join forces. It would be terrific to bring Brown onto the Steelers and pair him with Metcalf.
The issue would be if either would accept sharing the targets on offense.
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The biggest concern about acquiring Brown via trade would be his massive cap logistics until things settle down in the 2028 offseason. He isn't getting any younger, and that would lead to him being 31 before Pittsburgh could consider making a cap move if Brown struggles to live up to his contract. His contract doesn't run out until after the 2029 campaign, which could make any trade difficult.
One thing is certain: the Steelers need a long-term offensive plan to maximize Metcalf’s impact.
Adding Brown would surely accomplish that task if both he and Metcalf could live in harmony. If not, it could lead to a similar result that Philadelphia is living with after their playoff collapse. Pittsburgh must find a legit upgrade to its receiving group this offseason, and Brown could make sense, but it will be a tricky deal to negotiate.