Patriots Pursuing A.J. Brown: Is It Worth A First-Round Pick?

On March 20th, here's the latest surrounding the NFL.

The New England Patriots keep getting linked to wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia

Eagles this offseason.

They just signed, Romeo Dubs, who could step up as their top option, but reports say they're

still chasing Brown.

The Eagles won at least a first round pick, and trade talks are on hold right now.

A key factor is the date anything after June 1st changes Brown's cap hit for Philly, which

might drop their asking price.

That could make a deal more doable for New England without overpaying.

Fans and analysts wonder if it's worth it.

Given Brown's elite track record, he's topped a thousand yards in six of seven seasons.

At 29 years old though, his contract carries big hits, $23 million this year, then $22

million, $27 million, and $29 million over the next four.

Other options make more sense than coughing up a first-rounder, plus extras.

For instance, if talks heat up around George Pickens from the Dallas Cowboys, that could

be a smarter move with youth on the table.

Patriots' brash should cap any Brown pursuit at a second-round pick and a late-rounder

at most.

Otherwise, just draft talent or shop for a fresher star.

To build around long-term.