A.J. Brown Explodes After Eagles Rookie Walks Out Over Money

The morning sun over the NovaCare Complex should have been just another backdrop to the Eagles’ relentless march toward the preseason. Instead, it became the stage for a moment that sent ripples through Philadelphia’s locker room — and a message from one of the team’s biggest stars that will not be forgotten.

It started quietly, in the middle of routine drills. Helmets clashed, cleats dug into the turf, and then, without warning, a promising rookie linebacker stopped, turned, and walked off the field. No injury. No coach’s whistle. Just a sudden exit that left teammates and staff exchanging puzzled glances.

The reason? Word had spread that a fellow rookie, drafted later, had secured a bigger payday. That linebacker was Smael Mondon Jr., Philadelphia’s third-round pick out of Georgia, whose four-year rookie deal came in at $4.55 million with a $600,000 signing bonus. The contract in question belonged to sixth-round quarterback Kyle McCord — a $5.35 million deal with a slightly smaller bonus but a higher total value.

When reporters asked A.J. Brown about the incident, the Pro Bowl wide receiver didn’t hesitate. “Walking out of practice just because of a contract issue? In Philadelphia, we stay on the field, bleed green, and prove we belong. We’ve turned down bigger contracts just to keep wearing midnight green — if you walk away, you’re only letting someone else take your spot.”

Brown’s words lit up social media, with fans praising his loyalty to the culture while questioning whether Mondon had already stumbled in his first big NFL test. In the eyes of veterans, this was more than just a payday dispute — it was about the standard that defines Philadelphia football.

Head coach Nick Sirianni avoided direct criticism but made the team’s stance clear. “We’re here to compete, to get better every day. That’s the standard,” he said, his tone leaving no doubt that actions in August echo deep into the fall.

For Mondon, the consequences are real. Walking out meant lost reps in a crucial development window — the same reps hungry undrafted rookies would fight tooth and nail to earn. And in a city that values grit over excuses, every missed snap feels like a step backward.

The Eagles’ front office is not expected to adjust rookie deals, and the business of football moves on. But as the preseason looms, one question will hang in the humid Philadelphia air: Will Mondon return with fire in his eyes — or has this walkout already defined his rookie season?