Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Key Takeaways
- The Eagles traded two picks (18th and 101st overall) for A.J. Brown and secured a contract extension before completing the deal.
- Brown has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each season with the Eagles and played a key role in winning Super Bowl LIX.
- The Titans used the 18th pick acquired from the Eagles to draft Treylon Burks, who has struggled with injuries and limited production.
- Brown has shown empathy for Burks’s struggles and values his opportunity in Philadelphia.
Table of Contents
The Trade That Changed the Eagles’ Future
The Titans’ Gamble That Didn’t Pay Off
Brown’s Reflections on the Trade
What This Trade Means Going Forward
The Trade That Changed the Eagles’ Future
On draft day in 2022, Eagles GM Howie Roseman executed a blockbuster trade, sending the 18th and 101st overall picks to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for A.J. Brown. This move was not just a simple swap; it was the result of intricate negotiations, with Roseman candidly revealing that the deal nearly fell apart without first securing Brown’s contract extension. Roseman said, “If we can’t get a contract done, we can’t do this trade… We had to get a contract done first” [1][2].
Brown was entering the final year of his rookie deal, so Philadelphia’s front office prioritized locking him in to avoid a one-year rental scenario. With three first-round picks originally and trading one for a future pick, the Eagles honed in on this deal as a calculated risk that quickly paid dividends.
A.J. Brown’s Impact in Philly
Since joining the Eagles, Brown has been an elite playmaker, consistently producing over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his three seasons—joining franchise lore alongside Mike Quick for this streak. Despite an injury setback in 2024, Brown still amassed 1,079 yards and seven touchdowns, playing a crucial role in the Eagles winning Super Bowl LIX[1][5].
His presence has reshaped Philadelphia’s offense and propelled them to a champion-level team, validating the bold trade and contract extension decision.
The Titans’ Gamble That Didn’t Pay Off
The Titans used the 18th overall pick acquired from the Eagles to draft wide receiver Treylon Burks. Unfortunately for Tennessee, Burks has struggled to find consistent health and production, playing in just 27 games over three seasons and scoring only one touchdown. Following multiple severe injuries—including an ACL tear and broken collarbone—Burks was waived during training camp and reverted to injured reserve[3][4].
The continued misfortune of Burks starkly contrasts Brown’s shining success in Philadelphia, deepening the narrative of one of the most uneven trades in recent NFL memory.
Brown’s Reflections on the Trade
Despite his success, Brown has expressed empathy for Burks and the Titans’ situation. He stated, “I am a little sad for Treylon Burks… It sucks to see it go down like that.” Brown appreciates that the trade allowed him to flourish in a bigger market and team better suited to his talents[4].
What This Trade Means Going Forward
The AJ Brown trade serves as a fascinating case study in front-office strategy, contract negotiations, and how player value and fit can dramatically shift the trajectory of franchises. Howie Roseman’s insistence on contract certainty before finalizing the deal was a masterstroke that led the Eagles to a Super Bowl, while the Titans are still seeking answers in their post-Brown rebuilding phase.
For fans and analysts, the trade remains a hallmark example of smart decision-making meeting a player’s prime years, highlighted by Brown’s dynamic performances and championship pedigree.
FAQ
What was the main reason the Eagles made the trade for A.J. Brown?
The Eagles prioritized contract certainty, ensuring Brown’s extension was secured before finalizing the trade, making it a calculated move to acquire a top receiver and avoid a rental scenario.
How has A.J. Brown performed since joining the Eagles?
Brown has consistently surpassed 1,000 receiving yards each season, contributed significantly to the Eagles’ Super Bowl victory, and remains a key offensive weapon.
What happened to Treylon Burks after the trade?
Burks struggled with injuries and limited production, playing only 27 games over three seasons, scoring a single touchdown, and eventually being waived and placed on injured reserve.
What does Brown think about Burks’s situation?
Brown has expressed empathy, saying, “I am a little sad for Treylon Burks… It sucks to see it go down like that,” appreciating the trade’s role in his success.