Report: Antonio Brown Not Expected to Return to NFL This Season

Brown could wind up on the commissioner's exempt list

Antonio Brown Makes Public Apology to Patriots Owner Robert Kraft
Antonio Brown warms up prior to a game against the Miami Dolphins. (Michael Reaves/Getty)
Getty Images

Citing “league sources,” ESPN reports that Antonio Brown will likely not return to the NFL this season despite his continued efforts to do so.

The free agent wide receiver is scheduled to meet with the league on Thursday (Nov. 14) to address the sexual assault allegations against him, but according to ESPN, if any of the three teams that have been in contact with him were to make Brown an offer, the NFL would be prepared to put him on the commissioner’s exempt list. If that were to happen, the team that signed him would have to pay him until the league’s investigation is resolved — something that might not happen before the end of the season.

ESPN also reports that Brown has not turned over all of the evidence requested of him by the NFL.

However, despite all that, Brown’s agent Drew Rosenhaus remains confident that the player will be back before the end of the season. “I believe the NFL should clear him after they interview him this week, and I expect he will be signed shortly after that,” Rosenhaus told ESPN.

Brown has reportedly filed eight grievances against the Raiders and Patriots and is seeking $39.775 million in lost salary, bonuses and guaranteed money.

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