Tag: Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders, after a summer of seemingly senseless trials and tribulations, will be entering the 2019-20 NFL season without Antonio Brown. Coach Jon Gruden gave a valiant effort in trying to change the locker rooms culture and appease star receiver AB at the same time. However, Antonio Browns unrelenting negative behavior proved to be impossible for Gruden.

AB has been a prime example of the saying “Biting the hand that feeds you”, this off season. The personal issues AB may suffer from are unknown, but something significant must be causing his childlike behavior. Brown threw away $30 million contract before he even played a game. He is great receiver talent with hall of fame potential, but his attitude proved too much for the Raiders organization to handle.

The last straw was when GM Mike Mayok and AB almost got into a physical altercation. Brown was the aggressor and had no sound reason to act the way he did. He was so out of control, Vontaze Burfict had to restrain him, and Burfict is known for being a terribly tempered player himself. The situations cause was a letter to Brown explaining why he was being fined. Brown then posted it on social media and proceeded to argue with the GM at practice. Brown was going to be suspended but was cut instead.

I personally think he should have been released during the helmet situation. He chose not to attend practices and threatened to retire forcing his team into a bad position in which they could do nothing. He injured himself during cryotherapy in France, which caused him to miss extra practices. I don’t have anything against Brown, but an organization should not have to sacrifice its class for a player that is finding every reason not to play and cause drama. They gave him a great contract and literally wanted him to be comfortable and play. Every headline AB made this summer gave more evidence as to why the Steelers let him go for very little in return. Hopefully AB can turn his act around for his own sake because his future isn’t looking too bright.

The Oakland Raiders wide receiver, Antonio Brown, has began to raise red flags before the 2019 season even starts. Behavior causing his exit from the Steelers is beginning to reoccur. Brown is an exceptional wide receiver and has been given the opportunity to play for a team with less drama. He battled relentlessly to leave the Pittsburgh Steelers whom he claimed had an “Owners Mentality”. Brown is now in a better position in a new franchise. His contract and prior baggage has been accepted by the Raiders. This would seem to be the best deal a player, of Brown’s status, could receive.

Brown first, during training camp, burned his feet during cryotherapy. This type of therapy requires a very specific footwear to keep the feet safe from frostbite. Brown did not wear the appropriate type of footwear. His feet are in such bad shape he is unable to fully practice during camp and, he may miss the first regular season game. To make matters worse, Brown is now threatening to sit out if he is not allowed to wear his old helmet. The helmet no longer meets league safety regulations, which makes Brown’s argument even more pointless. Brown is putting the Raiders in a difficult position.

Brown’s exit from Pittsburgh had justification because of ownership and quarterback issues. However, his behavior in Oakland is already beginning to cause chaos within the organization. If Brown continues this problematic pattern, he may cause his career to fall apart. As a 31 year old wide receiver, Brown does not have a lot of time. His best days may be in the past and no team is going to accommodate an older player with his attitude.