NFL wide receiver A.J. Brown recently offered insights into his dynamic with former Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts. Despite their friendship having naturally evolved over the past few seasons, Brown, now with the New England Patriots, emphasized that his affection and well wishes for Hurts remain steadfast. This revelation comes shortly after his significant trade, which saw him move from Philadelphia to New England.
Former Teammate Discusses Evolving Bond After Major Trade
On Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026, in an interview with NBC Sports' Maria Taylor, star wide receiver A.J. Brown, following his trade from the Philadelphia Eagles to the New England Patriots, candidly discussed his relationship with quarterback Jalen Hurts. The Eagles confirmed Brown's transfer, pending a physical, in exchange for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round selection. Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel verified that Brown successfully completed his physical and would join the team's voluntary practice sessions.
When asked about his current bond with Hurts, who is also the godfather to Brown's daughter, Jersee, Brown acknowledged, "We're not as close as we once were." However, he quickly clarified, "I believe that's perfectly normal. There's no ill will whatsoever; in fact, a great deal of affection still exists between us. I love him dearly and genuinely wish for him to achieve all his aspirations." Brown expressed surprise at the public's intense focus on their friendship within a football context, noting that their closeness had gradually diminished over several years without impacting their on-field performance or team leadership. He reiterated his deep respect and desire for Hurts' continued success.
Brown further explained that no specific event precipitated this change in their relationship. "Nothing dramatic occurred; people simply drift apart," he stated. "There were no disputes between us, our families, or our spouses. Life happens, and sometimes you look up and realize you've grown distant, which is completely acceptable. I believe both of us have come to terms with this."
Brown and Hurts shared four seasons as teammates after Brown's acquisition by the Eagles from the Tennessee Titans in April 2022. During their tenure, they participated in two Super Bowls, securing one championship. Patriots coach Vrabel, who previously worked with Brown during his time with the Titans, praised his new player, highlighting his passion for the sport, exceptional physicality, strong body control, and consistent performance.
Brown, who will celebrate his 29th birthday on June 30th, is a distinguished three-time Pro Bowler. He earned second-team All-Pro honors with the Eagles in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Over his last two seasons, he averaged 72.5 receptions and 1,041 receiving yards, building on his first two seasons in Philadelphia where he achieved 97.0 receptions and 1,476 yards. Notably, Brown holds the franchise records for single-season receiving yardage with 1,496 yards in 2022 and 1,456 yards in 2023. His four-year career in Philadelphia concluded with 339 receptions, 5,034 yards, and 32 touchdowns across 62 regular-season games. In eight playoff appearances, all starts, he added 28 catches for 334 yards and three touchdowns, culminating in a Super Bowl victory in the 2024 season.
This candid discussion from A.J. Brown offers a valuable perspective on the personal and professional relationships that often intertwine in high-stakes environments like professional sports. It underscores that while career paths may diverge, genuine respect and support can endure. It also highlights the public's fascination with athlete dynamics, sometimes overshadowing their athletic achievements. Brown's comments serve as a reminder that even prominent figures experience the natural evolution of friendships, and that such changes do not necessarily imply conflict.
