Jalen Hurts Admits Relationship with A.J. Brown Grew Apart
- Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts acknowledged in recent comments that he and wide receiver A.J.
- According to reporting by Marca, the writing was on the wall for A.J.
- During an interview in early September, Brown discussed his new quarterback in New England, Drake Maye, offering comments that fans and analysts interpreted as a veiled comparison to...
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts acknowledged in recent comments that he and wide receiver A.J. Brown clearly grew apart during the previous National Football League season, according to reports from outlets including NBC Sports and ESPN. The admission addresses months of speculation regarding the deteriorating relationship between the two star players before Brown was traded.
A.J. Brown Departs Philadelphia for New England After Tensions
According to reporting by Marca, the writing was on the wall for A.J. Brown’s tenure in Philadelphia early in the 2025 season. Marca noted that the star wide receiver grew unhappy with how he was utilized by the coaching staff, resulting in visible disagreements with head coach Nick Sirianni. Those mounting frustrations ultimately culminated in a trade. In early June, Brown was sent to the New England Patriots, reuniting him with former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, as reported by Marca. While Brown’s absence leaves an on-field void for the Eagles offense, Marca stated that locker room vibes in Philadelphia remain high.
Contrasting Comments on Quarterback Play
During an interview in early September, Brown discussed his new quarterback in New England, Drake Maye, offering comments that fans and analysts interpreted as a veiled comparison to his time with Hurts. According to Marca, Brown praised Maye’s deep-ball accuracy and willingness to take risks downfield.
He’s very special, and I continue to brag on him. He can make any throw. He really tries to be a perfectionist… His mindset is, I’m running down the field and he’s trying to place the ball in my hand. 30, 40 yards down the field. Which is really hard to do, but he makes it look very effortless,
Brown said, as cited by Marca.
Brown noted that he instructed Maye not to worry about perfection on every throw, but rather to give him a chance to make a play in his general area. Marca reported that this aggressive approach to downfield targets was notably absent in Philadelphia, where Hurts frequently chose safer options on plays when Brown was not completely open.
Jalen Hurts Focuses on Leadership and Upcoming Season
Aside from addressing his past chemistry with Brown, Hurts has focused on his own development and leadership style. According to Eagles Wire, the quarterback recently credited his father with shaping the leadership qualities he brings to the Philadelphia locker room as the team prepares for the upcoming schedule.