The Steelers are the underdogs going into their Week 15 matchup with the Eagles, but nothing in Philadelphia seems optimistic if you ask their fanbase. This team is struggling to rally behind their starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts, who has been unable to produce over 200 passing yards in a single game since November 14. Fans are getting antsy with his lack of elite caliber output they’re used to.
It has gotten to a point of toxicity that Kenny Pickett has been demanded to start over Hurts by certain fans. Most of those who root for the Steelers know that shoving Pickett into the starting spot over Hurts would be a terrible idea. They might enjoy that thought this week as it would benefit Pittsburgh in their head-to-head battle. Things are starting to boil within the Eagles organization.
The relationship between a quarterback and receiver is a big part of their success on the field. A.J. Brown is a top receiver for the Eagles, but he has seen his numbers drop in recent weeks. The lack of success in their passing attack has started to affect Philadelphia mentally. Yes, they are still finding ways to win games, but there are certain red flags that fans are starting to get worried about.
AJ Brown could be traded to Steelers if he reaches a breaking point
According to Eagles legendary edge rusher Brandon Graham, Brown and Hurts are butting heads. While he was on 94 WIP Sports Radio he explained, “I know 1 (Hurts) is trying and 11(Brown) could be better with how he responds to things. They were friends, but things have changed.” It is not the first time Brown has expressed frustrations with the Eagles, but if he has problems with Hurts, then this could get worse.
He wants to play a big role in Philadelphia’s success on offense. That is not happening. Brown is used to adding quality numbers to his stat sheet, and that isn’t occurring right now. He has only caught one touchdown in the past seven weeks. That is an unusually low mark when you look at Browns’ prior numbers throughout his career. If his frustrations boil over, then he could be a trade option.
His cap hit is rather exorbitant between now and through the 2026 season. He still has some great numbers and could rival George Pickens for the top receiver spot if he did land in Pittsburgh. Again, a lot would have to happen for the Eagles to even consider taking trade inquiries on Brown. He remains one of their best players on offense, plus his cap situation would make a deal complex.
Pittsburgh should be calling the Eagles this offseason consistently if Brown becomes a trade option. He still has good years in front of him. It might make a Pickens extension an issue, but adding someone like Brown would only make the Steelers deadlier on offense. If things continue on their current track, then it is possible Brown either wants out or the Eagles will want to move on this offseason.