The Patriots put an end to the 11-day Antonio Brown experiment, releasing him less than 48 hours before their date with the New York Jets.
The New York Jets will have to deal with a lot of gridiron weaponry on Sunday afternoon. Antonio Brown won’t be among the arsenal.
The New England Patriots have released the receiver, less than 48 hours before they’re set to square off against the Jets (1 p.m. ET, CBS). Rumors of the release were fueled by a cryptic tweet from Brown himself before it was confirmed by the Patriots minutes later.
Thank you for the opportunity @Patriots #GoWinIt
— AB (@AB84) September 20, 2019
Statement from a #Patriots spokesperson: https://t.co/c98rNDX9QG pic.twitter.com/DAohupBLHo
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) September 20, 2019
Brown’s New England tenure lasted a single game. This release coincides with the latest off-field controversy involving Brown, who has been accused of sexual assault to multiple victims. Sports Illustrated‘s Robert Klemko unveiled threatening texts Brown sent to one of the accusers on Thursday night. Brown has denied all accusations.
Despite the mounting controversies, Brown was set to play in Sunday’s game. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick told reporters at Friday’s New England press conference he would not address questions on Brown and left the podium after several opening questions pertained to the receiver’s status.
In Brown’s lone New England appearance, he had 56 yards on a quartet of receptions in Week 2’s 43-0 win in Miami. Brown forced an exit from his original team in Pittsburgh in March to Oakland after a deal with the Buffalo Bills fell through. The Raiders released him on Sept. 7 after a series of issues, including a near-physical confrontation with general manager Mike Mayock. New England added him later that day.
In Brown’s absence, the Jets will still deal with a strong New England receiving corps. The Patriots welcome back veterans Julian Edelman, Josh Gordon, and Phillip Dorsett.
