The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took a considerable risk by recently signing veteran wide receiver Antonio Brown. As it turns out, however, it wasn't such a huge gamble. According to reports, the 32-year-old's new deal is just “slightly above the league minimum.” Hat tip to Mike Florio of NBC Sports.
We can't say that this comes as a huge surprise considering all the off-field drama Brown has been involved in of late. The 5-foot-10 WR was handed an eight-week suspension by the league to open the season in relation to a civil suit he is currently facing involving his former personal trainer. Then again, this is a seven-time Pro-Bowler we're talking about here, and for him to be paid close to the league minimum still remains as a bit of travesty, right?
Whatever the case may be, it is clear that for his part, Brown is just happy to be back in the league again. According to reports, he should be available for the Bucs as early as Week 9, as they face off against the New Orleans Saints.
With Tampa Bay, Brown reunites with fellow Hall of Famer Tom Brady, who he has found success with in the past. Brown is no spring chicken, but he still appears to have some gas left in the tank. He'll certainly be playing with a chip on his shoulder this season, and this opportunity with the Buccaneers presents him with a clear shot at redemption.
