NFL Trade Season Heats Up: Eagles’ A.J. Brown Among Stars Who Could Move

As NFL trade season approaches, several high-profile players including Eagles receiver A.J. Brown could be on the move. The financial implications of potential deals involving Brown, Maxx Crosby, and quarterbacks Tua Tagovailoa and Kyler Murray reveal the complex economics teams face.

The NFL’s trading period is set to intensify as teams prepare for franchise tag decisions starting Tuesday and the upcoming free agency period next month.

A year ago, major player movements dominated headlines before free agency officially began, including DK Metcalf’s move from Seattle to Pittsburgh, Geno Smith’s trade from the Seahawks to Las Vegas, and Laremy Tunsil’s relocation from Houston to Washington alongside Deebo Samuel, who joined the Commanders from San Francisco.

Though Seattle’s strategy seemed unclear initially, the Seahawks ultimately signed Sam Darnold as a free agent and captured Super Bowl LX. Now, numerous franchises are exploring potential trades as part of their long-term rebuilding efforts.

Several prominent veterans could find themselves in trade discussions, each carrying significant financial implications for both their current teams and potential suitors.

Philadelphia Eagles WR A.J. Brown

The 29-year-old receiver presents a complex situation with over $110 million remaining across four contract years. His 2026 salary cap impact would be $23.4 million for Philadelphia but only $7 million for an acquiring team.

Tensions between Brown and quarterback Jalen Hurts have created an uncomfortable dynamic that simple apologies cannot resolve. Trading Brown would saddle the Eagles with a massive $43.5 million dead money hit on their 2026 cap. However, General Manager Howie Roseman might prioritize team chemistry over financial concerns. Brown’s situation mirrors that of cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who has been traded three times during his career.

Las Vegas Raiders DE Maxx Crosby

The 29-year-old pass rusher carries a 2026 cap hit of $35.88 million, which would drop to $30.79 million for a new team. Las Vegas would absorb only about $5 million in dead money.

With minority owner Tom Brady’s input, the Raiders’ front office might consider moving Crosby if they receive substantial compensation. Teams like the New York Jets or Dallas Cowboys could offer multiple first-round selections or valuable assets such as an offensive tackle to entice General Manager John Spytek. Without a premium offer, Las Vegas should wait until October’s trade deadline when Crosby’s value remains high.

Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray

Murray’s contract situation reflects concerning value concerns, as the Cardinals paid him $158.5 million in salary and bonuses from 2023-25 while he appeared in just 30 games over three seasons. His 2026 cap hit of $52.7 million would decrease to $24.9 million for a trading partner, making the deal structure potentially attractive despite his injury history and inconsistent play.

Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa

At 28, Tagovailoa represents the most expensive option with a $56.3 million cap hit in 2026, reduced to $42.9 million for an acquiring team. Miami would face a devastating $45.2 million dead money penalty.

Despite the financial pain, the Dolphins could survive this hit if they believe in seventh-round rookie Quinn Ewers or plan to draft a replacement in April. Tagovailoa’s current cost exceeds what the Rams pay Matthew Stafford and surpasses contracts for Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Sam Darnold, Jordan Love, Jalen Hurts, Brock Purdy, and Trevor Lawrence.

Miami’s new leadership experienced similar decisions in Green Bay when Aaron Rodgers was traded and the Packers committed to Jordan Love. The Dolphins likely won’t receive significant compensation for Tagovailoa, similar to Denver’s situation with Russell Wilson, where the Broncos absorbed over $80 million in dead money after one season with Sean Payton. Denver’s decision proved correct as they drafted Bo Nix and earned the AFC’s top playoff seed in 2025.