Thursday’s NFL: Steelers’ Brown says, ‘We suck’
The chorus of “The Storm Is Over” by gospel singer Kirk Franklin played as Antonio Brown approached his locker on Thursday, an intentionally apt choice by Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker/DJ Vince Williams to address the latest bit of drama surrounding his superstar teammate.
The former Central Michigan star heard the song and laughed. Then the All-Pro wide receiver stepped in front of his stall and turned to face the cameras. The music stopped. The smile faded. In its place? A mix of frustration, defiance and — he insists — remorse.
Yes, he’s upset the Steelers are winless through two games. Yes, he probably shouldn’t have responded to criticism on social media from a former team employee by suggesting the team trade him if it wants to find out how productive he can be without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
No, he doesn’t actually want to get out of Pittsburgh. No, he doesn’t have an issue with offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner. And as for his demeanor during a 42-37 loss to Kansas City last Sunday? Sorry, but he’s never going to apologize for letting his emotions bubble over when things aren’t going well.
“We haven’t won a game yet,” Brown said. “For me, as a Steeler, that’s unacceptable. I’m not on the sideline begging for the ball, or making statements like you guys make. I’m pissed off. We’re losing. We suck.”
Beckham sounds off
Odell Beckham Jr. is also sick of losing, and frustrated with seemingly being asked to take tests every other week by the NFL for performance-enhancers.
Beckham tweeted about the tests Thursday: “It’s actually funny how I ‘randomly’ get tested every other week,” Beckham wrote. “Dear @NFL please stop sending these people, ur takin away from meeting times and film… thanks.”
There are limits to the amount of times a player can be tested.
Under the 2018 NFL Policy on Performance Enhancing Substances, the program is run by an independent administrator. A computer randomly picks up to 10 players a week to be tested.
Gronk’s ankle an issue
Tight end Rob Gronkowski is dealing with an ankle issue as the Patriots prepare for their Week 3 matchup Sunday night with the Lions.
Gronkowski was a limited participant in practice Thursday after participating in Wednesday’s workout. He has started both games for New England this season, and has nine catches for 138 yards and touchdown.
Extra points
The Dallas Cowboys top the NFL in value at $5 billion, according to a ranking at forbes.com. No. 2 is the Patriots at $3.8 billion. The Lions rank 31st among the 32 teams at $1.7 billion.
While Minnesota and Cleveland changed kickers after only two games, the Bengals gave Randy Bullock a two-year contract extension for his perfect start.