Eagles Release Hollywood Brown and Fred Johnson Ahead of Bye Week

The Philadelphia Eagles released offensive tackle Fred Johnson and wide receiver Hollywood Brown on Friday, November 13.

The roster moves come as the team prepares for a bye week, moving toward younger personnel and a reliance on returning starters. While the departure of Johnson was unexpected given his role as a depth piece on a struggling offensive line, the decision regarding Brown aligns with the team’s current health projections.

“My understanding is the Eagles expect DeVonta Smith and Tay Wicks to return after the bye or shortly thereafter and are now in a position where they want to provide younger players more opportunities,” Eagles On SI’s John McMullen wrote on X.

The DiCecco Daily: Going Inside Why The Eagles Waived OT Fred Johnson, WR Hollywood Brown — Inside The Birds

Smith has dealt with a persistent hamstring injury that has limited his presence on the field throughout 2026. Through nine games, he has appeared in only four outings, recording 26 catches for 26 yards and two touchdowns.

With AJ Brown sidelined, Smith has been forced into the WR1 role for the first time since his 2021 rookie season.

Eagles Release Hollywood Brown and Fred Johnson Ahead of Bye Week

The Eagles’ decision to cut ties with Brown, who became a depth player after a quiet training camp, comes as the team expects to be healthier after the bye week. The team is also waiting on the return of Dontayvion Wicks to bolster the depth chart. Wicks has played in six games this season, accumulating 19 catches for 284 yards and one touchdown.

The Eagles will return from their bye week next week; it is the first time this season the roster will not include AJ Brown. The team hopes to have more help for Joe Milton when they return from the bye, with DeVonta Smith and Dontayvion Wicks expected to return.