Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown’s Changing Dynamics Post Trade

The 2025 season was inconsistent for Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, and the Philadelphia Eagles offense. Subsequently, the Eagles traded Brown to the New England Patriots for future draft picks. This major move came amid evidence suggesting a decline in the once-close friendship between Hurts, the Eagles’ quarterback, and Brown, the star receiver.

Despite more than two months passing since Brown’s trade to the Patriots, there are ongoing questions about their relationship. During recent joint practices between the Patriots and the Eagles, Brown responded with a single word when asked if he had communicated with Hurts since his transfer: “No.” While Hurts has mostly refrained from discussing the relationship’s status, he shared insights during an interview with GQ. On whether he remained close to Brown, Hurts acknowledged the relationship shift, stating, “There’s no surprise that it was talked about.”

Hurts, recognized as the MVP of Super Bowl LIX, confirmed Brown’s earlier remarks by saying, “I mean, clearly.” In June, Brown noted no particular incident caused the separation between the former teammates, asserting, “Nothing happened, people just grow apart. Nothing occurred between me and him, our families, wives, anything. Nothing like that ever transpired.”

Brown expressed acceptance of the distance, saying on the “7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony” podcast, “Life happens, and you just look up sometimes and you find yourself drifting away, and that’s fine. I think both parties accepted that.” During the Patriots-Eagles joint practices, Brown and Hurts were seen catching up.

Brown attempted to steer the conversation positively, remarking, “None of that stuff even matters. You all should report something positive. Asking the question will turn negative. Let’s not get into that. Let’s keep everything positive. It’s love my way.” Similarly, Hurts conveyed warm sentiments about Brown, saying, “I’ve got a lot of love for him and always have.”

Brown holds the title for the two highest single-season receiving yardage totals in Eagles history. In 2022, he achieved 1,496 yards, followed by 1,456 yards in 2023. Despite drama involving Brown, the Eagles clinched their second Vince Lombardi Trophy the following season. However, Philadelphia was eliminated in the wild-card round in January, losing to the San Francisco 49ers.

Eagles general manager Howie Roseman revealed Brown requested a change of scenery post-game. Sources reported Brown’s frustration partly stemmed from his interactions with Hurts and a belief he was being underutilized against zone coverage. Social media posts and media session comments by Brown during the 2025 season further indicated dissatisfaction with his offensive role.

Brown expressed gratitude for his time in Philadelphia, saying, “It’s love. I won a Super Bowl ring with them. It will always be love no matter how anyone feels. I love Philly and will always love Philly, but I’m here now. That’s where my feet are and that’s what I’m focused on.”

Hurts and Brown’s friendship began before they were Eagles teammates; Hurts hosted Brown during a recruitment visit at Alabama. Their bond grew with offseason workouts, culminating in Hurts becoming the godfather to Brown’s daughter, Jersee.

The Eagles will start their regular season at home against the Washington Commanders on September 13. Meanwhile, the Patriots will visit the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks on September 9 to begin their 2026 season.

Chantz Martin works as a sports writer for Fox News Digital.