A.J. Brown expressed his appreciation for playing in Philadelphia, despite feeling somewhat dismayed by the narratives formed around his trade from the Tennessee Titans during the 2022 NFL Draft. In a pivotal move, the Titans exchanged their star wide receiver for picks Nos. 18 and 101. Subsequently, Tennessee used the 18th pick to select Treylon Burks, who faced significant challenges in his career, including concussions, knee injuries, and a torn ACL that cut short his 2023 season, leading to his recent release from the team.
Brown acknowledged that the trade has been heavily scrutinized, recognizing that it has been overwhelmingly favorable to the Eagles. Among players directly connected to the exchange, only cornerback Roger McCreary remains with the Titans, although his future is uncertain as his contract expires after this season. Brown expressed sympathy for Burks, stating, “I wish he could get healthy because he is a good kid,” and he mentioned keeping in touch with him.
CBS Sports analyst Jared Dubin recently listed the trade as one of the worst in the NFL since the turn of the millennium, highlighting Brown’s remarkable performance in Philadelphia. Since joining the Eagles, Brown has consistently delivered impressive statistics, averaging 87 catches for 1,343 yards and eight touchdowns over three seasons, and has played pivotal roles in two Super Bowl appearances, including a victory last season.
Dubin noted Burks’ struggle to maintain a position within the receiver rotation and ongoing health issues, contrasting this with Brown’s success and impact. The sentiment surrounding the trade is clear: the Eagles emerged as significant winners in this deal, and the Titans are left reassessing their decision.
Despite the challenges faced by Burks, there is a silver lining in Brown’s positive impact in Philadelphia and his ongoing support for his former teammate. Looking towards the future, the Titans hold the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which could set them on a path to rebuilding and finding new talent. This potential opportunity offers hope for the team’s turnaround in the seasons to come.