Antonio Brown is none too pleased after he found out the Pittsburgh Steelers sent out their jersey assignment, giving No. 84 to new kick returner/running back Cordarrelle Patterson.
The Pittsburgh Steelers witnessed some of the most stellar wide receiver performances in franchise history during the reign of Antonio Brown, and although he was certainly headed to a hall-of-fame career, things changed with his behavior, and the team was forced to trade him away to the Raiders.
He spent years taking shots at the players and organization so it’s not too shocking that they do not care about his coveted number.
After seeing the news, he made sure to let the team know he was aware someone was taking his number and quickly came up with a solution to rectify the situation.
The All-Pro wide receiver posted on social media that he’d talked it over with family and has decided that a return to the Steelers could work if they give him No. 86. He stated he would work for free.
@CtespnN BREAKING NEWS
After thinking it over talking it over with family
I’ll come back and play for Steelers for FREE this season if I can get #86
Since Jersey # don’t matter much should not be a big deal
Help us get 7 rings
This is legit your move @steelers #CTESPN pic.twitter.com/lS76VpsUK9
— AB (@AB84) April 5, 2024
Antonio Brown became one of the best wide receivers of his generation during his run in Pittsburgh as he racked up 837 receptions for 11,207 receiving yards and 74 touchdowns, via ESPN.com, but the franchise isn’t one to keep numbers on the shelf once players leave.
It should be noted that Patterson isn’t the first Steelers player to wear the number since Brown left, but he will be the first player to wear it during the regular season. Upon his arrival, Patterson was considering a number change but ultimately chose to stick with 84. He’s worn the number in all 11 seasons he’s been in the league.
Antonio Brown Forces Trade From Steelers Leaving A Bad Taste In Their Mouth
Antonio Brown (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
Antonio Brown’s departure from the Steelers virtually ensured that his number would not be retired by the franchise.
His attitude and disparaging comments directed towards players, coaches, and the organization, tarnished his legacy and got him shipped out of town. It was the beginning of the end of his career.
Brown was cut by the Raiders before playing a game, cut by the Patriots after one game, and eventually cut by the Bucs after he ran off the field in the middle of a game.
