Things appeared to get a bit heated on the sideline late in the Eagles’ 34-28 win over the Vikings last week. Wide receiver A.J. Brown was frustrated with his limited targets and was making that known.
NFL Insider Brian Baldinger of the Audacy original podcast “In The Huddle” explained why Brown’s frustration in the Eagles offense is a big deal.
“It’s a big deal when he doesn’t get the ball because he makes it a big deal,” Baldinger said (42:00 in player above). “This is not the first time this thing has happened.”
Brown made four catches on six targets in last Thursday’s win. He was held to just 29 yards, though, with his longest reception coming in at 12 yards. The wideout did have a touchdown called back due to a penalty after the sideline situation.
“Now it’s not like Jalen’s not trying to get him the ball. He’s his best friend! But if DeVonta’s open, DeVonta’s getting the ball,” Baldinger continued. “It’s not like they’re not taking these shots to A.J.; they are taking shots, they’re just not completing them. So I think it’s a big deal because it’s going to happen again.”
DeVonta Smith also finished with four catches (on five targets) but that included a 63-yard touchdown and the second-year receiver racked up 131 yards on the night.
Things may not get much easier for the Birds as they face a tough Buccaneers defense on Monday night.
“Tampa’s playing great defense. They’re taking the ball away,” Baldinger said. “The Eagles are not getting the ball down the field with any regularity. I think Jalen’s taking off too early. This is a good test to find out where the Eagles are at because Tampa’s playing great defense.”
Through two games, Brown leads the Eagles with 16 targets to Smith’s 15. Both receivers have made 11 catches on their respective targets.