The speculation surrounding the departure of A.J. Brown from Philadelphia continues unabated. Now Patriots legend Julian Edelman, of all people, is causing a stir with a social media post.

The future of A.J. Brown with the Philadelphia Eagles remains uncertain.

The star receiver already hinted several times last season that he was dissatisfied with his role.

A trade in this NFL offseason therefore does not seem unlikely – especially since a well-known newcomer has already signed with namesake Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, who could at least partially cushion a possible departure.

In this scenario, the New England Patriots come into focus as a potential trade partner. The rumor mill has now been fueled by a GIF that Patriots legend Julian Edelman posted on Thursday.

In the clip, longtime kickoff returner Tom Brady can be seen saying, “We’re all Patriots.” After a quick cut, A.J. Brown appears, winking and grinning. The scene is from an episode of the “Dudes on Dudes” podcast from a few weeks ago.

Brown trade: Does Patriots legend Julian Edelman know more?

The GIF immediately went viral and reached hundreds of thousands of people within a few hours. The fact that Edelman is sharing the scene now of all times is interpreted by many fans as a signal that Brown’s move to New England is getting closer.

However, it may just be wishful thinking on the part of the 39-year-old: Negotiations between the Patriots and the Eagles are said to have been extremely tough so far and have even stalled in the meantime.

Written by Michael