Newly acquired New England Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown comments on his former relationship with Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts after reports of tension surfaced. Brown says his connection with Hurts became less close over time before his trade to the Patriots, describing it as them “growing apart.” In his remarks, Brown adds that despite the distance, he maintains positive feelings toward Hurts and frames their past as a relationship built on mutual respect. Coverage also notes that Brown’s statements address ongoing rumors about whether he and Hurts had conflict leading up to the trade. The accounts agree that Brown is responding to the public narrative surrounding the end of his time in Philadelphia. While the reports focus on the development of distance between the two, they also emphasize that Brown does not characterize the situation as hostile, and he continues to express support for Hurts. The statements come as Brown prepares for his role with the Patriots following his move from the Eagles.