Philadelphia Eagles Could Shake Things Up With Bold Move to Replace AJ Brown
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
The Philadelphia Eagles have stayed busy this offseason, with GM Howie Roseman leading the moves. But one big topic is still not going away, trade rumors around AJ Brown.
Many people thought the Eagles would trade Brown before the offseason started. Reports have mentioned possible tension between him and the team over the past two years. Even with all the talk, no deal has happened yet. Roseman is asking for a high return, and other teams have not met that price.
At the same time, the Eagles have to protect their offense. Jalen Hurts needs strong targets to succeed. The team added Marquise Brown, but he cannot fully replace Brown’s impact. Because of that, the Eagles may now look to the draft to find another wide receiver.
Eagles Eye Draft Option As Potential Replacement
The Philadelphia Eagles have the No. 23 pick in the 2026 draft, and it could be very important if they decide to trade Brown. One player getting attention is Omar Cooper Jr. from the Indiana Hoosiers.
Cooper played a big role in Indiana’s national title run last season. He built strong chemistry with quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who many expect to be the No. 1 overall pick.
He put up solid numbers in 2025, with 69 catches for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns. Over three seasons, he recorded 115 catches, 1,798 yards, and 22 touchdowns. His stats show steady improvement.
If the Eagles trade Brown, Cooper could join DeVonta Smith and Marquise Brown. Together, they could keep the offense balanced.
Experts have already started analyzing Cooper’s game. Lance Zierlein from NFL.com has shared a detailed breakdown and even made a comparison.
“Big, strong target whose two-year rise is bolstered by translatable tape,” Zierlein wrote. He added, “While he was a full-time slot receiver in 2025, Cooper has played outside, as well, He can stem and drive past press with his strength, He has potent early acceleration to climb past nickelbacks into top position to challenge deep.”
“His routes lack polish and he has average in-and-out quickness,” Zierlein said. “He’s rugged once the ball is in his hands.”
Zierlein compared Cooper to Deebo Samuel. That shows Cooper plays a physical game and is strong after the catch.
Some scouts still think Cooper will go in the second round. Others now believe he could be picked in the first round. That means he could be available when the Philadelphia Eagles are on the clock.
The Eagles now have a clear decision to make. They can keep Brown and stick with their current team. Or they can make a crazy move and trust the draft.
Whatever they decide will have a big impact on their offense in the 2026 season.
