Mike Vrabel and the New England Patriots are focused on quickly rebuilding into a playoff contender. Following a forgettable 2024 season, the Patriots head into the offseason with significant cap space and strong draft capital.
The team could also explore the trade market, particularly to address one of their biggest needs: a star wide receiver. While rookie quarterback Drake Maye has shown tremendous potential, he needs more support. One name to watch is Philadelphia Eagles wideout A.J. Brown.
Brown shares a history with Vrabel from their time together with the Tennessee Titans. The two remain close, and Brown has already been mentioned as a possible trade target for the Patriots.
Addressing the rumors, Vrabel shared his thoughts on Brown:
“Yeah, we’ll see. … I’m proud of his development, his personal development,” Vrabel said. “And working on himself. … He’s a passionate player, and I love him to death. I have a very, very close relationship with him.”
Reuniting Brown with Vrabel in New England would be a game-changer for the Patriots’ offense, providing Maye with a dynamic weapon and reuniting Brown with a trusted coach.
During the 2024 season, Brown delivered another strong performance with the Eagles, recording 67 receptions for 1,079 yards and seven touchdowns.
However, he expressed frustration over his limited targets. At 27 years old, Brown has plenty of prime years left and could grow alongside Maye as part of the Patriots’ future.
A trade for Brown might even be a better fit than signing Tee Higgins in free agency. With Vrabel’s close connection to Brown and the wideout’s potential openness to leaving Philadelphia, this situation is worth monitoring. If the Eagles make him available, expect Vrabel and the Patriots to pursue him aggressively.
