Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith recently spoke about the potential trade of his teammate A.J. Brown during his annual Celebrity Softball Game in Allentown, Pennsylvania. With the June 1 deadline approaching, trade rumors surrounding Brown continue to escalate.
Why it matters: A.J. Brown's future with the Eagles is uncertain, and his potential trade could significantly impact the team's receiving corps. Smith is positioned to take on a larger role if Brown departs.
Brown remains on the Eagles' roster, but expectations suggest he will be traded after June 1, when his dead money significantly decreases.
If Brown is traded, Smith would become the Eagles' unquestioned No. 1 wide receiver.
Smith's charity event attracted media attention, prompting questions about his teammate's status.
Driving the news: Smith has consistently downplayed the trade speculation surrounding Brown. He expressed his commitment to his responsibilities on the field instead of entertaining hypotheticals about Brown's departure.
During the pregame media session, Smith stated, "I got a job to do so I plan to go out there and do that," when asked about stepping up as the primary receiver.
He reiterated his focus on performing well, saying, "I just go out there and do my job," refusing to comment on Brown's situation.
State of play: As the June 1 deadline approaches, the Eagles are weighing their options for Brown. The New England Patriots have emerged as a likely destination if a trade occurs.
Reports indicate that the Eagles are open to trading Brown, with discussions expected to resume around the June 1 date.
Trading Brown after June 1 would reduce the Eagles' dead cap hit from $43 million to $16.4 million.
Brown's four-year tenure with the Eagles has been marked by speculation about his role and relationship with quarterback Jalen Hurts.
The big picture: Smith's performance and future with the Eagles may be intertwined with Brown's potential departure. Smith has established himself as a reliable receiver, but his role could expand significantly.
Smith recorded 240 catches for 3,178 yards and 19 touchdowns over his first three seasons with the Eagles.
He set an Eagles rookie record for receiving yards (916) in 2021 and established a team record for single-season receptions (95) in 2022.
In the 2025 season, Smith led the Eagles in receiving yards for the first time since Brown joined the team, finishing with 1,008 yards.
What they're saying: Smith's approach to the trade rumors has drawn praise from fans and analysts alike, highlighting his professionalism and focus.
Fans have commended Smith for avoiding controversy and maintaining his composure during the offseason.
Analysts note that Smith's steady demeanor reflects the culture within the Eagles organization, where players are expected to stay focused regardless of external noise.
By the numbers: Smith's statistics demonstrate his effectiveness as a receiver, even as he operates in the shadow of Brown.
Smith has averaged about 1,000 yards per season and has never scored more than eight touchdowns in a campaign.
His current contract, a three-year, $75 million extension signed before the 2024 season, places him among the highest-paid receivers.
If he becomes the primary target and performs at an All-Pro level, he could command an extension exceeding $30 million per year.
What's next: As the offseason progresses, attention will turn to the Eagles' front office and their decision-making process surrounding Brown.
The Eagles have yet to provide an official update on Brown's status, but trade talks are expected to intensify as the June 1 deadline approaches.
Smith's performance in the upcoming season will be closely monitored, especially if he becomes the team's leading receiver.
Whether Brown remains with the team or not, Smith's role as a key piece of the Eagles' offense is already well established.