Eagles GM Explains Why AJ Brown Was Untouchable at the Trade Deadline

Howie Roseman revealed that AJ Brown was never available for a trade.

Eagles GM Explains Why AJ Brown Was Untouchable at the Trade Deadline

Howie Roseman and AJ Brown (Image via IMAGO)

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Every NFL team has one or two players who are considered untouchable aside from the quarterbacks. For example, the Cleveland Browns bent over backward to keep 2023 DPOY Myles Garrett, and then future Hall of Famer Travis Kelce, who spent his entire career at Kansas City. AJ Brown is another name in that category.

Brown hasn’t requested a trade from the Philadelphia Eagles; however, his body language, press conferences, cryptic tweets, and social media activities suggest he will gladly join another NFL team, not even twelve months after winning the Super Bowl.

When the Eagles traded for edge rusher Jalen Phillips from Miami, it was a clear indication that they were more than willing to do business ahead of the November 4 deadline. Then came a big surprise. AJ Brown remained part of the Eagles even after the trade deadline closed on Tuesday.

Jeff McLane of The Inquirer spoke with Eagles general manager Howie Roseman about Brown. Roseman confirmed that Brown was not available for a trade.

I think that when you’re trying to be a great team, it’s hard to trade great players. And A.J. Brown is a great player. He wears the ‘C’ for a reason. [Brown’s an] important part of [Eagles], of this organization. He cares about winning. He cares about his teammates. And I think that when you’re a team like ours that is looking forward to an opportunity to compete for a championship, you just don’t get rid of the guys like that. And so, feel very lucky to have him on our team and excited about the second half of the season with him.

Brown’s frustration dates back midway point of last year. As the WR1 for the team, he asked for more involvement in the offense.. His grievance remained the same in 2025. Cracks formed between him and quarterback Jalen Hurts. The only reason Roseman managed to keep all the egos in check was the winning culture.

Nevertheless, Brown became a prime target for the 7-2 New England Patriots, a team he grew up supporting. Roseman waved his magic wand and kept hold of his prized asset.

AJ Brown is committed to playing his best football with the Eagles

The Eagles took down the New York Giants before heading into the bye week. After eight games, they lead the NFC East with a 6-2 record, miles ahead of the 3-5-1 Dallas Cowboys in second.

Eagles GM Explains Why AJ Brown Was Untouchable at the Trade Deadline
AJ Brown (Image via IMAGO)

Brown missed the win over the Giants due to a hamstring injury, but should be fine to face the Green Bay Packers in week ten. Speaking with Josina Anderson, a league source claimed that Brown is hungry to win.

AJ Brown is not miserable. He’s hungry. He’s a player that cares about his team and his legacy. He wants to be among the greats. Every player should want that, & continue to strive for that. So of course he’s going to want to feast. That’s the energy that is a difference-maker. You don’t get rid of that.

In an interview with The Athletic‘s Brooks Kubena, Brown disclosed that he is indeed frustrated because he wants more of the ball during a game.

I know everybody’s counting on me, that’s my thrill. Everybody knows the ball’s coming to me. I love that feeling. It’s a rush. And that’s why it’s frustrating at times. And maybe people really misunderstand me as a player, but those feelings – that’s what I want. You may see a little frustration. It’s because I really want to contribute… if I’m not getting the ball, obviously, it’s not as fun.

AJ Brown told Kubena

In seven starts this year, AJ Brown has accumulated 29 receptions from 51 targets for 395 yards, 13.6 yards per catch, and 3 touchdowns.

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