The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing to take on the defensive-minded Jacksonville Jaguars in the divisional round of the NFL playoffs after enjoying a first-round bye. During the week off, superstar Antonio Brown and his playing status was a significant concern with the All-Pro being arguably the best player on the team.

At this point, Brown is determined to play against the Jaguars as he's made progress and is on pace to be on the field this weekend. Although Brown is getting close to his return, the veteran wideout admits his season could have easily come to an end against the New England Patriots, via ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

Brown recalled a “pretty ugly” injury that resulted in team officials rushing him to the hospital during the game against the Patriots. Brown said he won't divulge specifics with his injury, but he's grateful he's in a position to play again this year.

“Absolutely [scary],” Brown said. “As soon as the incident happened, with an MRI, and we're in a police car right to the hospital — I'm pretty grateful. [I] can grow from this experience. No man playing this game has never had adversity. I'm glad I'm able to be on my feet today talking to you guys.”

Article Continues Below
More Pittsburgh Steelers News
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) is shown after he led Gang Green to a 32-20 victory against the Miami Dolphins, on Jan. 5, 2025, in East Rutherford, N.J.
Aaron Rodgers makes Steelers ‘Super Bowl contenders,’ ex-QB saysLorenzo J Reyna ·
Steelers news: Pittsburgh's Super Bowl LX odds after signing Aaron Rodgers
Steelers’ Super Bowl LX odds after signing Aaron RodgersChris Spiering ·
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) throws his 500th career touchdown pass in the second quarter of the game against the Miami Dolphins
Aaron Rodgers, Steelers finally agree to contractScotty White ·
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) and Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin (right) greet each other after their game at Acrisure Stadium.
Ben Roethlisberger drops Aaron Rodgers Steelers or nothing takeJackson Stone ·
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Cameron Hayward (rear) and linebackers TJ Watt (90) and Alex Highsmith (56) participate in organized team activities at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex.
T.J. Watt’s contract situation for Steelers draws eye-opening take from franchise favoriteDouglas Fritz ·
New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) reacts following a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium
Ben Roethlisberger backup sounds off on Steelers’ Aaron Rodgers dramaJackson Stone ·

Fortunately for Brown, the scary injury he sustained is something he was able to overcome, and now he's focused on getting back on the field to lead his team to the Super Bowl. The Steelers, with Brown on the field, might be the biggest threat to the Patriots in their campaign to repeat as champions.

Despite the fact the Steelers may have to face an incredibly tough challenge against Patriots down the road during the postseason, Pittsburgh still has to go head-to-head against a much-improved Jaguars team. Jacksonville beat the Steelers in convincing fashion (30-9) earlier this season making this rematch an interesting playoff battle, to say the least.