Bucs kick Antonio Brown off squad after shirtless wide receiver left the field mid-game
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Antonio Brown was apparently frustrated and angry. So he walked away.
Buccaneers of Tampa Bay. And maybe his NFL career.
The Mercurial wide receiver was sent off from the Buccaneers after a bizarre, shirtless exit from the field before Tom Brady coldly led the Bucs on a 93-yard rush in the dying minutes for a 28-24 victory over the New York Jets on Sunday .
Coach Bruce Arians said after the game Brown was out of the squad.
“It’s not a Buc anymore,†Arians said. “Alright? That’s the end of the story. Let’s talk about the guys who went there and won the game.
Brown’s mid-game collapse came late in the third quarter as Tampa Bay led 24-10. He appeared animated while speaking to Mike Evans, who attempted to calm his teammate down. But Brown took off his towels, jersey, gloves and t-shirt – throwing the gloves and t-shirt into the stands – then walked shirtless along the touchline and into the end zone. He then motioned for fans to run into the end zone and the tunnel at MetLife Stadium.
It seemed like a display of frustration from Brown, who made three catches for 26 yards.
“I’m not talking about it,†Arians said. “He’s not part of the Bucs.
Brown was suspended for three games last month for violating the league’s COVID-19 protocols. He also has a history of personal conduct issues and bizarre behavior.
“It’s a tough situation,†Brady said. “Everyone should do what they can to help them in the way that they really need to. We all love it. We care deeply about him. We want to see him be at his best. Unfortunately, it won’t be with our team. … I think everyone should be very compassionate and empathetic towards some very difficult things that are happening.
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