During the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Week 17 matchup against the New York Jets, Antonio Brown shockingly left the game early, ripping his gear off and throwing it into the crowd as he exited the stadium. It was a sight to behold that took the internet by storm. However, Brown's side of the story has been revealed.
According to Ian Rapoport, Brown refused to go into the game due to the fact he did not feel his ankle was healthy enough for him to play. Bruce Arians and the coaching staff believed otherwise. Since the two were at odds, the Buccaneers staff told Brown to leave, which he promptly did.
From @GMFB: How and why did #Bucs WR Antonio Brown end up storming off the field shirtless to end his Tampa Bay career? pic.twitter.com/nd6xq0xMLp
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2022
If this is true, then Bruce Arians and his coaching staff have some explaining to do. Considering how important health and safety are in the NFL, this isn't a great look for the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay has yet to respond to Antonio Brown's reasoning, but we're bound to hear from Arians, or the organization as the week progresses.
This of course can be added to the list of dramatic escapades for Antonio Brown. He's been all over the place since his departure from the Pittsburgh Steelers and now he's in the middle of a controversy with the Buccaneers.
It was wild to see a high-profile player leave the way Brown did in an important game, especially with the playoffs right around the corner. We'll see what happens, as the Buccaneers have been tight-lipped about the situation altogether. Pay close attention to Brown and Tampa Bay, as more information could be coming soon.