The writing appears to be on the wall for A.J. Brown in Philadelphia.
ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports that Jalen Hurts has been holding private workouts with his receivers this offseason, but Brown is notably absent.
Who Hurts IS Throwing With
Hurts has been working with DeVonta Smith, whom Fowler specifically called "his new No. 1 receiver," and veteran Elijah Moore as the team installs Sean Mannion's new offense.
"He's also been throwing off-site with some of his receivers, DeVonta Smith, who's his new No. 1, new veteran Elijah Moore," Fowler said on SportsCenter. "He's been getting after it, trying to get ready for this new offense."
Brown's Absence Speaks Volumes
Brown skipped the Eagles' voluntary workout program, something he's never done before in Philadelphia. Sources say while there were never any major arguments between Hurts and Brown, communication broke down over their four years together.
The relationship has been "tested," according to team sources, though multiple sources confirmed they never saw Brown and Hurts engaged in an argument during the season and were professional throughout.
Trade Still Expected
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Brown remains on track to be traded to the New England Patriots after June 1. The Eagles would only face a $16.4 million dead cap charge if moved after that date, compared to $43.4 million before June 1.
The fact that Smith is being positioned as the new top target, and that Hurts is investing offseason time with Moore instead of Brown, speaks volumes about where things stand.
It's becoming increasingly clear: Hurts is already preparing for life without A.J. Brown.
