The Rise of A.J. Brown from College Star to Philadelphia Eagles Top Receiver

The Rise of A.J. Brown in the NFL

A.J. Brown has become one of the top wide receivers in the NFL over the past few seasons. After being drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Brown made an immediate impact as a rookie. He quickly developed a strong connection with Titans quarterback Ryan Tannehill and became a reliable target in the passing game. Brown’s impressive skills and athleticism have made him a matchup nightmare for opposing defensive backs.

College Success at Ole Miss

Before entering the NFL, A.J. Brown was a standout wide receiver for the University of Mississippi Rebels. He had a highly productive college career at Ole Miss from 2016-2018. Brown made an instant impact as a freshman in 2016, catching 29 passes for 412 yards. Over the next two seasons, he became one of the top receivers in the nation.

In 2017, Brown had a breakout sophomore campaign. He recorded 75 receptions, 1,252 receiving yards, and 11 touchdown catches. Brown followed up with another dominant season as a junior in 2018. He hauled in 85 passes for 1,320 yards and 6 touchdowns. His impressive back-to-back seasons at Ole Miss demonstrated that Brown had the skills to succeed in the NFL.

Rookie of the Year Campaign

The Tennessee Titans selected A.J. Brown in the 2nd round with the 51st overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. He was the fifth wide receiver drafted that year. As a rookie in 2019, Brown immediately flashed his big-play abilities and reliable hands. He quickly developed into one of quarterback Ryan Tannehill's favorite and most trusted targets.

In his first NFL season, Brown recorded 52 receptions, 1,051 receiving yards, and 8 touchdown catches. He led all rookies in receiving yards and touchdowns. Brown also averaged an impressive 20.2 yards per reception. His standout rookie campaign earned him a Pro Bowl selection and the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award.

Continued Success and Growth

In 2020, Brown enjoyed another productive season despite some minor injuries. He played 13 games and finished with 70 receptions, 1,075 receiving yards, and 11 touchdowns. Brown earned his second straight Pro Bowl nod. He also formed one of the NFL's top receiving duos with Titans teammate Corey Davis.

The 2021 season was Brown's last in Tennessee. He appeared in 13 games and totaled 63 catches, 869 receiving yards, and 5 touchdowns. Brown averaged an excellent 13.8 yards per reception over the course of the season. He continued to display his abilities as a premier route runner who can generate big plays.

Trade to the Philadelphia Eagles

After three successful seasons in Tennessee, the Titans traded A.J. Brown to the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2022 NFL Draft. Philadelphia gave up draft picks to acquire the proven young receiver as a target for quarterback Jalen Hurts.

In Philadelphia, Brown will look to form another dynamic duo with 2021 first-round pick DeVonta Smith. With Brown and Smith at receiver, the Eagles have two talented playmakers capable of taking over games. The team hopes the addition of Brown will bolster their passing attack and make them contenders in the NFC East.

Outlook for Brown in Philadelphia

Expectations are high for A.J. Brown as he joins the Eagles offense. He now has the opportunity to be the clear number one receiving option after playing second fiddle to running back Derrick Henry in Tennessee. Brown will quickly become a security blanket and go-to target for young QB Jalen Hurts.

Brown's elite route running and yards after the catch ability should enable him to thrive in coach Nick Sirianni's offense. He is also an underrated red zone threat who will provide Hurts with a jump ball specialist. If he can stay healthy, Brown seems poised for the best seasons of his career with the Eagles.

In 2022 and beyond, look for A.J. Brown to establish himself as one of the NFL's truly elite wide receivers. Alongside DeVonta Smith, he will give Philadelphia one of the most feared pass catching duos in the league. Expect Brown to continue making big plays and putting up huge numbers as an Eagle.

FAQs

When was A.J. Brown drafted into the NFL?

A.J. Brown was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the 2nd round of the 2019 NFL Draft with the 51st overall pick.

What college did A.J. Brown play for?

Brown played college football at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) from 2016-2018 where he was one of the top receivers in the nation.

What awards did A.J. Brown win as a rookie?

In his stellar rookie season in 2019, Brown was named to the Pro Bowl and won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Award.

What team does A.J. Brown play for now?

After starting his career with the Tennessee Titans, Brown was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2022 NFL Draft.

Who did the Eagles trade to get A.J. Brown?

The Eagles gave up draft picks in the 2022 NFL Draft to acquire Brown from the Tennessee Titans.