The trade rumors surrounding Philadelphia Eagles star receiver A.J. Brown have officially been laid to rest, but that doesn’t mean the team isn’t planning ahead at the position.
ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter recently shut down the swirling speculation, stating unequivocally, “Contrary to internet speculation, the Eagles are not trading A.J. Brown.” Still, the front office appears to be eyeing wide receiver help in this week’s NFL Draft.
According to Albert Breer, the Eagles are seriously considering Ohio State wide receiver Emeka Egbuka with the 32nd overall pick. Breer noted that Philadelphia’s unique roster depth and cap strategy allow the team to think a year ahead at key positions. That includes potentially selecting a slot receiver who could contribute immediately and develop into a long-term asset.
“One name that’s been raised to me here is Ohio State WR Emeka Egbuka, who could be the team’s slot receiver from the jump,” Breer wrote, “and then give the Eagles a natural replacement for whenever it’s time to say goodbye to A.J. Brown.”
Wait a minute. That sentence is written in a way - accidentally, we assume - to suggest that those goofy A.J. rumors are somehow tied to the idea of drafting a wideout.
The facts about Brown?
That farewell is likely years away as Brown is signed through 2029.
Separate from that, Egbuka offers immediate value and long-term upside.
At 6-foot-1, 205 pounds, the Buckeye standout posted 81 receptions for 1,011 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024. His clean route-running, reliable hands, and high football IQ make him one of the most polished receivers in the draft.
Egbuka's primary experience from the slot would complement Philadelphia’s current setup perfectly. With Brown and DeVonta Smith stretching defenses from the outside, Egbuka could thrive in the intermediate game, becoming a chain-mover on third downs and a dependable outlet for quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Though 2024's No. 3 receiver conversation never truly affected the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning campaign—thanks in part to Jahan Dotson and tight end Dallas Goedert—wideout depth remains a priority. Goedert’s future is uncertain, and adding a versatile receiver like Egbuka could give the Eagles critical insurance against injuries or future contract maneuvering.
Howie Roseman’s forward-thinking draft strategy is well documented. From Jordan Mailata to Cam Jurgens, Roseman often invests in talent one step ahead of need.
So, in fairness to this report?
Targeting Egbuka would continue that trend—solidifying the WR room for 2025 and beyond.
With eight total picks and glaring needs along the defensive line and offensive front, the Eagles have options. But Egbuka represents the kind of dual-value pick Roseman covets: one who can contribute immediately while developing into a cornerstone.
A.J. Brown isn’t going anywhere. But if Roseman adds another Ohio State product to the mix, it’s a sign the Eagles are building for both the present and the future—with eyes firmly fixed on another title run.
