In between free agency and the NFL Draft, much of the conversation around the New England Patriots’ offseason has been centered around two players: cornerback Christian Gonzalez and Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown.
Starting with New England’s own, Gonzalez is now eligible to sign a contract extension with the team entering his fourth NFL season. The team has reiterated throughout the offseason that reaching an agreement is in their plans.
Speaking on Monday at the team’s annual pre-draft press conference,
executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf did not have an update on negotiations.
“No Gonzalez update other than I’ll continue to say we want Christian here,” he said.
As for Brown, speculation continues to swirl that the Eagles will trade the three-time Pro Bowler this offseason. New England — with a need at wide receiver and Brown’s former head coach Mike Vrabel in place — have been considered the most likely landing spot.
According to Wolf, the team will continue to explore all avenues to improve the roster, which may include Brown.
“As far as players on other teams, going to keep the door open to anything that we think may improve our roster, whether that’s with the player you mentioned or other players.”
Any trade for Brown at this point is not expected to come until after June 1. A move before that date would cost the Eagles a dead cap hit north of $40 million, compared to roughly $20 million after.
