Antonio Brown Ghosts Big Ben as Troubling Situation Develops in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh’s disappointing NFL season was defined in large part by healthy running back Le’Veon Bell’s year-long absence from the lineup. But Bell is not the only Steeler who may be at odds with teammates, coaches or management.
Wide receiver Antonio Brown did not play against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 17. The club’s official explanation is that Brown was banged-up and couldn’t go, but the rumor mill is in overdrive – and QB Ben Roethlisberger is now speaking out in frustration.
Some sources are claiming that Big Ben and the veteran WR had harsh words at practice leading up to the game. Reportedly, Brown erupted after someone asked from him to run a drill more time, telling the QB that he feels taken for granted and underappreciated.
Roethlisberger is denying that there was blow-up in practice. But he also related to the media earlier this week that “AB” is not returning his calls or text messages since last Thursday. “I called and texted and reached out numerous times and tried to find out what going on,” said Big Ben at a presser. “But I really couldn’t get any answers.”
Head coach Mike Tomlin told reporters that Brown is not asking for a trade.
There was certainly nothing wrong with Brown’s chemistry with teammates on the field this season. The former Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowl selection posted 5 100+ yard receiving games, catching 14 passes on 19 targets for 185 yards and 2 touchdowns in a 31-28 loss to the New Orleans Saints in Week 16. He has totaled more than 1000 receiving yards in each of the past 6 seasons.
But whether he makes it 7 in a row with Pittsburgh in 2019-20 is now an open question.
“I hope he’s back here with me because he makes me better,” Roethlisberger said.
