Steve Smith Weighs In on Patriots’ Potential Trade for A.J. Brown

The New England Patriots are reportedly considering a trade for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown following the departure of veteran receiver Stefon Diggs. In a recent conversation with ESPN’s Mike Reiss, retired NFL receiver and current analyst Steve Smith shared his insights on whether the Patriots should pursue this move during the offseason.

Smith expressed concerns about the impact of such a trade on the development of the team’s younger players. “When you have a young quarterback and a young core of receivers, letting those guys grow together makes it better long-term for the receiver core and quarterback,” he stated. This sentiment reflects the organization’s strategy of fostering talent rather than making immediate, high-stakes acquisitions.

The second-year quarterback for the Patriots, Drake Maye, had a standout season in 2025, becoming a finalist for the Most Valuable Player Award. In his first year under offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and with Diggs as a primary target, Maye showcased his potential. ESPN statistics reveal that aside from Diggs and tight end Hunter Henry, no other Patriots player recorded more than 50 receptions during the 2025 regular season.

Concerns remain regarding the team’s receiving depth. Neither Kayshon Boutte, a sixth-round draft pick in 2023, nor third-round pick Kyle Williams from 2025 has demonstrated the ability to be a reliable No. 2 receiver for a team with championship aspirations. Despite this, acquiring Brown may come at a steep price. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman is reportedly seeking a first-round draft pick and a second-round pick in exchange for the 28-year-old, a figure Smith believes is excessive.

“It’s a really good young receiver core,” Smith added. “The only way your young core really starts to develop is baptism by fire.” He emphasized the need for the Patriots to identify a player capable of filling the role Diggs played effectively, especially in short-yardage situations. McDaniels has a history of utilizing receivers who excel in quick, strategic plays, reminiscent of past Patriots stars like Danny Amendola and Wes Welker.

In addition to the discussion of Brown, there are indications that the Patriots might consider signing Alec Pierce from the Indianapolis Colts, should they decide against a trade. NFL insider Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported that Brown has the Patriots on a “wish list” of potential teams for a new contract. Brown previously played under head coach Mike Vrabel during his time with the Tennessee Titans from 2019 to 2021, which may add an interesting dynamic to his decision-making process.

As of Monday morning, speculation around Pierce suggests that he is open to offers from other teams once the “legal tampering” period of free agency commences at noon ET. The Patriots’ front office is expected to remain active as they evaluate their options for enhancing the roster ahead of the upcoming season.

With strategic decisions at play, the Patriots’ management faces a critical choice that could shape the team’s future direction. Balancing the need for immediate talent against the importance of player development will be crucial as they navigate this offseason.