Antonio Brown suspended 8 games by NFL; now Seahawks, Ravens can decide if receiver is worth it
The NFL has suspended free-agent wideout Antonio Brown for 8 games.
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It had been widely speculated that the NFL would suspend talented but troubled wideout Antonio Brown for eight games, and that's exactly what happened Friday; the league puts distasteful news out Friday afternoon ahead of the weekend – it's called a news dump. That means the former All-Pro would be available to play again in Week 9 or 10, depending on where/if he signs.
Therein lies the question: Is Brown worth it during a year where a coronavirus pandemic could cut the season extremely short or preclude it from starting at all? Perhaps it he might be worth it to stash Brown for the stretch run and playoffs?
Per Pro Football Focus' Wins Above Replacement number, Brown has been the most valuable wideout in the NFL since 2010. His 2015 season was the best of any receiver last decade. Talent has never been the issue.
Brown's suspension will take effect Week 1, regardless of whether he's on a roster. According to the NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, it still could be extended if further violations are found related to an ongoing civil suit in Florida. The league also warned Brown that any future violation of the Personal Conduct Policy will likely result in more significant discipline.
Two quarterbacks with a lot of pull, Seattle's Russell Wilson and Baltimore's Lamar Jackson, have pushed for their teams to sign Brown. If his head is on right, Brown could be the missing piece for either to win a Super Bowl as both could use wideout depth. The Ravens are +650 second-favorites at William Hill sportsbook to win Super Bowl 55 and the Seahawks +2000. Seattle recently got better with the Jamal Adams trade.
Check back next week for updated SportsLine NFL odds on where/if Brown signs assuming he doesn't before then.
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