New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots experienced a boring yet smart NFL Trade Deadline. Well, the latter may not apply if you ask certain fans.
With a 7-2 record after a narrow win over the Atlanta Falcons, the Patriots remain in first place in the AFC East. So why not make a big splash for a big-time player like Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown?
Because the Eagles had no interest in moving him, that’s why.
As NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo transcribed from Eagles general manager Howie Roseman’s media availability post-trade deadline, Brown’s team understands his value.
“I think that when you’re trying to be a great team, it’s hard to trade great players.” Roseman said, “A.J. Brown’s a great player. He wears the ‘C’ for a reason. He’s an important part of this team, of this organization. He cares about his teammates.”
The seventh-year wide receiver has 29 receptions for 395 yards and three touchdowns this season, but still has voiced his frustration over his usage. Even after a 121-yard, two-touchdown performance in a 28-22 win over the Minnesota Vikings, that does not diminish his value to the Eagles.
“He cares about winning, he cares about his teammates, and I think that when you’re a team like ours that is looking forward to the opportunity to compete for a championship, you just don’t get rid of guys like that.”
Roseman clearly sees the value Brown brings to his football team.
“We feel very lucky to have him on our team and excited about the second half of the season with him,” Roseman said.
Brown’s name was floated as a trade candidate for the last month. Many Patriots fans wished to see an elite pass catcher land in New England, but the Eagles’ front office leader wanted no part of a nightmare in Philly by trading him away.
