Philadelphia Eagles’ star A.J. Brown has cast a frustrated figure throughout the 2025-26 campaign so far.
A.J. Brown is undoubtedly one of the deadliest wide receivers in the entire NFL.
However, his mannerisms off the field have fallen into the spotlight over the last two seasons.
Reading books on the sidelines, cryptic posts on social media and unusual answers during post-game interviews are just a few examples that have raised eyebrows throughout the Philadelphia fan base.
However, even if a player is unhappy with their current role on the roster, as a highly compensated professional athlete this cannot come at the expense of their team-mates.
An unnecessary narrative
As reigning Super Bowl champions, the franchise already has a mammoth task in retaining the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Media scrutiny referencing an unhappy camp is an extra headache that head coach Nick Sirianni does not need.
Over six games so far this campaign, Brown has tallied just 25 receptions – totalling 274 yards and one touchdown.
The 28-year-old recorded 67 receptions (1,079 yards) throughout the entirety of the 2024-25 season. In comparison, Minnesota Vikings superstar Justin Jefferson registered 103 receptions (1,533 yards).
Given these statistics, it is easy to understand Brown’s frustrations as every player – especially one possessing the talent of the Eagles’ WR1 – wants to feel valued and inevitably have their ego stroked slightly.
Nevertheless, this is an issue that should have been handled before the campaign began.
It is hard to have sympathy for this player when Philadelphia has made no secret of their desire to provide a platform for the sensational Saquon Barkley to thrive in the run game – albeit that has barely paid dividends this year.
Now, due to the increasing pressure from fans on offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, the Eagles appear to be forcing the ball into wide areas to appease the complaints of their star receiver, something that is hindering the dynamism of this talented offensive unit.
A player with the ability and physicality of A.J. Brown should be provided more of an opportunity to showcase his talents. However, this should not be prioritised over the team’s success.
