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The Oakland Raiders traded third and fifth-round draft picks to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for Antonio Brown, a swap many across the NFL reacted to with shock given the cheapo price tag it took to acquire one of the most productive receivers in NFL history. Less than a month into the start of organized team activities, it's already clear Brown will be worth far more to the Raiders this season than his trade package suggests – and Jon Gruden's incessant praise is one of the biggest reasons why.
In an interview with NBC Sports' Peter King, Oakland's coach explained what he's “loved” about working with Brown so far.
“I just love guys like that. He’s like … he just wants it,” Gruden said. “Reminds me of, you throw a dog the ball, he just goes and gets it. He keeps going, and going, and going, and going. He just won’t stop. Antonio’s energy is contagious. Getting him here was interesting.”
Ignoring the inappropriate context behind Gruden comparing Brown to a dog, his assessment speaks to the impact superstar players have on a team's culture – which, as many within the Pittsburgh Steelers organization believe, can be both a blessing and a curse.
There's been no indication that Brown has ruffled any feathers since he was traded to the Raiders. He went out of his way to get in early work with quarterback Derek Carr almost immediately after the trade, and was present for organized team activities – which are voluntary, remember – last week after missing Oakland's initial session.
Brown, if recent history holds and Gruden's optimism are even faint indications, will be in for another huge season in 2019
