A year ago, A.J Brown was making history with a 12-yard touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. Now, the receiver has a very different goal: catching passes from Patrick Mahomes instead of facing him. But turning that vision into reality has proven far from simple.
Brown’s representatives have actively explored the market, targeting teams such as the Buffalo Bills, Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, and New England Patriots, according to Albert Breer.
For Brown, a move to Kansas City would represent a career reset.
Under Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, he could reclaim a leading role in a high-powered offense after a 2025 campaign that saw him catch 78 passes for 1,003 yards and seven touchdowns.
Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs former rival could be their answer at running back
That is despite struggling with reduced targets and a tense relationship with the Philadelphia Eagles organization.
The main obstacle remains compensation. Philadelphia reportedly wants top-tier draft picks similar to the 2022 deal that sent Davante Adams to Las Vegas, while other teams suggest a package closer to the 2024 Stefon Diggs trade.
“If you’re not ready to talk about at least your first-round pick, I don’t think that conversation is getting very far,” said ESPN’s Dan Graziano.
Chiefs’ focus is shifting elsewhere
Even if Brown is an ideal fit, the Chiefs are prioritizing other roster moves.
The team traded Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams, gaining multiple draft selections.
These picks, along with cap space from releasing Jawaan Taylor and declining guard Mike Caliendo, have shifted Kansas City’s focus to running backs.
Veteran Travis Etienne Jr. emerged as a top target after rushing for 1,107 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025, while Notre Dame prospect Jeremiyah Love is also under consideration.
For Andy Reid and GM Brett Veach, securing a backfield solution became a priority over acquiring a wide receiver, even one of Brown’s caliber.
Eventually, they announced the capture of Kenneth Walker III, who won the MVP award for his performance in the Super Bowl after winning it with the Seattle Seahawks.
Brown’s next move hinges entirely on Philadelphia.
Kansas City offers the quarterback, system, and opportunity to thrive, but with draft capital and backfield priorities in play, the Eagles hold the leverage.
Until they adjust their demands, the trade remains in limbo, leaving Brown’s vision of a fresh start with Mahomes uncertain.
But if Mahomes is keen to have him, Reid might just have to go all out to secure one of the best wide receivers in the NFL.