Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts confirmed in a GQ interview that his relationship with former teammate A.J. Brown had clearly deteriorated before Brown’s June 2025 trade to the Patriots, aligning with Brown’s own assertions of amicable drift.
Hurts’ Direct Admission
Hurts’ acknowledgment came after Brown, during a June 2025 appearance on the 7PM in Brooklyn with Carmelo Anthony
podcast, described their separation as a natural evolution. Nothing happened, people just grow apart,
Brown said, adding that no specific incident
had strained their relationship. Life happens, and you just look up sometimes and you just, you find yourself drifting away, and that’s fine,
he explained.
Brown’s Perspective
During a joint practice with the Patriots in August 2026, Brown briefly caught up with Hurts, sharing a hug and exchanging words. Honestly, guys, none of that stuff even matters, man,
Brown said at the time, urging reporters to focus on positive stories. You know asking the question is going to turn negative.
A History of Partnership and Production
Hurts and Brown’s connection began during Brown’s recruitment to Alabama, where Hurts hosted him. After Brown joined the Eagles in 2022, their bond deepened through offseason workouts, with Hurts becoming the godfather to Brown’s daughter, Jersee. On the field, their chemistry was undeniable: Brown tallied 339 receptions for 5,034 yards and 32 touchdowns over four seasons, including two of the franchise’s highest single-season receiving totals (1,496 yards in 2022, 1,456 in 2023).
The pair played pivotal roles in the Eagles’ 2024 Super Bowl LIX victory, but tensions emerged as Brown grew frustrated with his targets, particularly against zone coverage. His dissatisfaction culminated in a trade request, which the Eagles honored in June 2025, sending him to New England for future draft picks.
The Trade and Its Aftermath
The trade marked the end of an era for the Eagles, who had relied heavily on Brown’s production. Sources close to the team cited Brown’s frustration with his role as a key factor, though both players denied any personal animosity. I’ve got a lot of love for him and always have,
Hurts said in his GQ interview, though he did not elaborate on the nature of their split.
Brown, now with the Patriots, has focused on his new team, stating, It’s love. I won a Super Bowl ring with them. It will always be love no matter how anyone feels. I love Philly and I will always love Philly, but I’m here now.
His comments underscored the emotional complexity of the situation, balancing gratitude for his time in Philadelphia with a forward-looking mindset.
What Remains Uncertain
While both men have framed their separation as amicable, the exact timeline and causes of their drifting apart remain unclear. Hurts’ admission in GQ provides a direct confirmation of Brown’s claims, but neither has detailed the specific moments or conversations that led to the rift. For Eagles fans, the question lingers: Could their partnership have been salvaged, or was the split inevitable given the evolving dynamics of the team?
As the 2026 season approaches, the focus shifts to how both players fare in their new roles. For now, the story of Hurts and Brown serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between professional success and personal relationships in the NFL.
