The New England Patriots signed wide receiver Antonio Brown before knowing of his sexual assault and rape allegations case. But had they known, they wouldn't have gone through with signing him.

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the team would've taken a hard pass on the receiver, which has been confirmed by Pro Football Talk. 

If the Patriots did pass on signing Brown due to their knowledge of his situation, it's fair to wonder if he'd be playing on Sunday for another team. A franchise would likely have to do their homework on the situation. However, with it being so new, and a civil case, there is a lot of layers to the allegations.

Brown received a lawsuit claimed he raped his former trainer, Britney Taylor, three times from 2017 to 2018. In a statement posted by Brown's lawyer, Darren Heitner, the wide receiver denied all allegations and would do whatever possible to clear his name.

Article Continues Below
More New England Patriots News
Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) during the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium.
Patriots rumors: Mike Florio examines ‘complicated’ Stefon Diggs cut scenarioBen Strauss ·
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel (center) with Eastern Washington receiver Efton Chism III (left) and Patriots cornerback Kobee Minor (right)
3 New England Patriots hidden gems on 2025 roster you need to knowJaren Kawada ·
Oct 27, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) walks towards the sideline before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Patriots rumors: Stefon Diggs being cut ‘on the table’ amid viral videoMike Gianakos ·
Houston Texans wide receiver Stefon Diggs (1) warms up prior to the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Stefon Diggs’ future hinges on truth over boat party says Albert BreerJake Faigus ·
New England Patriots guard Cole Strange (69) defends against Las Vegas Raiders defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. (93) at Allegiant Stadium.
Patriots rumors: Controversial 1st-Round pick on chopping block to be cutConor Roche ·
New England Patriots center David Andrews (60) watches from the sideline during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Gillette Stadium.
2-time Super Bowl champion retires after 10 seasons with PatriotsConor Roche ·

Said the statement:

“Mr. Brown denies each and every allegation in the lawsuit. He will pursue all legal remedies to not only clear his name, but to also protect other professional athletes against false accusations.”

The NFL has begun looking into the situation. However, the league has to place him on the Commissioner's Exempt List, thereby making him eligible to play against the Miami Dolphins, which he'll do.

The Brown saga is far from over. Nonetheless, after switching between teams and bailing on the one who paid him, the wide receiver will finally play football on Sunday.