Bill Simmons Takes Hard Stance On Patriots-A.J. Brown Trade Rumors

Bill Simmons Takes Hard Stance On Patriots-A.J. Brown Trade Rumors originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

After releasing Stefon Diggs this week, the New England Patriotsneed to find a new No. 1 receiver to replace him. 

One player they've been heavily linked to in trade rumors is A.J. Brown, who seems to be unhappy with the Philadelphia Eagles and wants out. He also has a relationship with Mike Vrabel after playing three seasons for him.

However, his price probably just went up after the Buffalo Bills overpaid for D.J. Moore in a trade with the Chicago Bears.

Brown's one of the best receivers in the league, but he's also one of the most dramatic. Is he worth it?

Bill Simmons doesn't think so.

Should the Pats trade for A.J. Brown? 🤔@BillSimmons doesn't think they should. pic.twitter.com/gpMoBETCDt— The Ringer (@ringer) March 6, 2026

"I just don't think it's what they should do. I would much rather slightly overpay (Alec) Pierce from the Colts and keep my first-round pick," Simmons said on Thursday's episode of "The Bill Simmons Podcast." "I think Pierce is really good...He was in a quarterback wasteland, and watching the Colts, that dude got open every game."

Simmons said he would rather see the Patriots overpay Pierce in free agency and keep their first-round draft pick. Pierce is currently projected to receive around four years and $100 million.

At 25, Pierce is three years younger than Brown. He also comes with far less baggage and drama.

Pierce is also trending up. His receiving yards have increased in each of the last two seasons, nearly doubling from 514 to 1,003. He's also led the NFL in yards per catch over the last two years.

Meanwhile, Brown's receiving yards have declined in three straight seasons, so his career seems to be heading in the wrong direction as he approaches his 30th birthday.

NFL free agency starts next week, so time will tell if New England makes a push for Pierce.

More NFL: Patriots 'Expected To Make Big Push' For Star Free Agent After Stefon Diggs Release