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The New England Patriots and Philadelphia Eagles held joint practices this week, bringing together A.J. Brown and his former team for the first time since his mid-offseason departure. When asked directly whether he had communicated with quarterback Jalen Hurts since the trade, Brown offered a terse single-word denial, indicating no conversation has taken place since June.
Philadelphia dealt Brown to New England in exchange for future draft picks following a disappointing 2025 campaign that saw the receiver’s relationship with Hurts deteriorate. Sources indicated Brown had grown frustrated with his targets during zone coverage situations, and he released several comments on social media and to media outlets throughout the season reflecting dissatisfaction with his offensive role.
Despite the silence between the two former teammates, both expressed warm sentiments when discussing each other publicly. Hurts, the Super Bowl LIX MVP, stated he maintained affection for Brown, while the receiver emphasized his gratitude for their shared success and the championship he won in Philadelphia.
Brown acknowledged the possibility of reconnecting with Hurts during the ongoing joint practices in Foxborough. He spent downtime conversing with other former Eagles, including running back Saquon Barkley and cornerback Cooper DeJean, while maintaining an upbeat demeanor about the reunion.
In his debut with the Patriots, Brown caught all six passes thrown to him by third-year quarterback Drake Maye during 7-on-7 and team drills, though he dropped one attempt during one-on-one competition against All-Pro cornerback Quinyon Mitchell. Brown praised Maye’s abilities and expressed confidence in developing chemistry with his new quarterback.
Brown authored two of the three highest single-season receiving yardage totals in Eagles history with 1,496 yards in 2022 and 1,456 in 2023. The Eagles will open their regular season September 13 against Washington at home, while the Patriots face defending Super Bowl champion Seattle on September 9.
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