Go Birds! Daily, June 5th: Makai Lemon on playing with Jalen Hurts; 4 potential Eagles trade targets

Go Birds!26mJune 5, 2026
AI-Generated Summary

The Eagles' trade of AJ Brown to the Patriots for a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick has sparked intense debate, but host James Seltzer argues the return is already looking better than expected—especially with the 2028 pick likely to land in the top 20. Drawing on insider reports from Mike Garofalo and Peter Schrager, Seltzer reveals that AJ’s issues were not with coaches or teammates, but strictly with Jalen Hurts, a revelation that reframes the trade as a quarterback-centric decision rather than a simple personnel move. He also highlights a powerful moment from rookie Makai Lemon, who expressed awe at playing alongside Hurts, having watched him since college—offering a rare glimpse into how younger players view Hurts not just as a teammate, but as a lifelong football icon. This emotional perspective underscores a deeper respect for Hurts that often gets lost in the noise. Seltzer then outlines four potential trade targets: Mac Jones as a bridge quarterback if Hurts falters, Kayvon Thibodeau for depth, Max Crosby as a premium edge rusher if priced right, and Kyle Pitts as a high-upside offensive upgrade. While none are guaranteed, the analysis suggests the Eagles are positioning themselves for a strategic offseason with flexibility and future assets. The episode reveals a nuanced narrative: the AJ Brown trade wasn’t just about talent or cap space—it was about culture, leadership, and long-term vision.

Key Takeaways
1

AJ Brown’s departure was driven by a personal rift with Jalen Hurts, not coaching or team issues, according to insider reports.

2

The Eagles’ 2028 first-round pick is likely to be a top-20 selection, making the trade look increasingly valuable.

3

Makai Lemon’s emotional reaction to playing with Jalen Hurts reveals how deeply younger players respect him as a lifelong football icon.

4

Mac Jones could be a viable backup quarterback if Hurts underperforms early, thanks to his quick release and familiarity with the Eagles’ offense.

5

Kyle Pitts would be a high-upside offensive upgrade, potentially replacing AJ Brown as a versatile, pass-catching tight end.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:07
5 min

Friday Morning Update & AJ Brown Trade Aftermath

James Seltzer kicks off the episode with a morning update, reflecting on the weather, the Eagles' upcoming minicamp, and the emotional fallout from the AJ Brown trade. He shares his mixed feelings about the trade, defending AJ’s professionalism post-trade while acknowledging his on-field struggles.

4:59
1 min

GoBirds Insiders & Morning Routine

Seltzer promotes GoBirds Insiders, a daily email newsletter that delivers three key Eagles insights every morning, including stats, player thoughts, and trivia—positioned as a better alternative to doomscrolling on social media.

6:15
3 min

Inside the AJ Brown Trade: The Real Reason

It was strictly about the quarterback. So it was a really weird one because a lot of times the receiver goes... I'm just done with that team because whether it's the GM or the coach or some kind of combination of it, it wasn't the case here.

Highlight
9:54
3 min

AJ Brown’s Legacy & Locker Room Dynamics

Seltzer examines the contradiction between AJ Brown’s public image and his locker room reputation, highlighting that he was voted captain three times and praised by teammates like Devontae Smith and Quinian Mitchell. He questions why he’s being so publicly blamed on Jalen Hurts.

13:57
4 min

Makai Lemon’s Perspective on Jalen Hurts

I've seen him on TV ever since I was a little older than me, so it's definitely a great feeling to have him as my quarterback.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
It was strictly about the quarterback. So it was a really weird one because a lot of times the receiver goes... I'm just done with that team because whether it's the GM or the coach or some kind of combination of it, it wasn't the case here.
Mike Garofalo8:21
I've seen him on TV ever since I was a little older than me, so it's definitely a great feeling to have him as my quarterback.
Makai Lemon14:29
So if things really go south with Jalen, let's say they're not in on McKee considering that they're making him fight for the second quarterback job.
James Seltzer21:45
Speakers

Host

James Seltzer

Guest

Makai Lemon
Topics Discussed
AJ Brown trade95%Jalen Hurts quarterback controversy88%Eagles 2028 first-round pick85%Makai Lemon rookie perspective82%Eagles trade targets78%Mac Jones quarterback backup75%Kyle Pitts tight end trade70%Max Crosby edge rusher trade68%
People & Brands

Philadelphia Eagles

organization

30xPositive

AJ Brown

person

25xNeutral

Jalen Hurts

person

22xPositive

James Seltzer

person

12xNeutral

Makai Lemon

person

8xPositive

Mac Jones

person

6xNeutral

New England Patriots

organization

6xNeutral

Kyle Pitts

person

5xPositive

Max Crosby

person

4xNeutral

Mike Garofalo

person

4xNeutral

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