That?
That’s the smile of a man who just earned his long-term contract.
Steelers.com’s Missi Matthews and Teresa Varley are the first two people to talk to the NFL’s highest paid receiver in the league, Antonio Brown, an interview that went up a short time ago on the team’s website.
Brown’s reaction to finally inking his four year, $68 million extension, was one of pride and feeling grateful for staying in Pittsburgh.
“It’s a great honor. I’m grateful to be part of a great organization and know I have stability to be here for the next five years.”
While all the contract details haven’t been announced, his new money value of $17 million makes him the NFL’s highest paid receiver, no surprise to anyone who has been remotely following the negotiations.
It’s a true rags to riches story. Brown, raised in Miami, breaking into the NFL as a 6th round pick, and working hard to get to where he is today.
“I could tell you the work that goes in pays dividends. Working hard, working smart, always being ready when the opportunity presents itself.”
He was humble and contrite throughout the interview, praising the Rooney’s for their transparency throughout the process and recognizing how far he’s come.
“You got to have a vision. Thin positive things for yourself and continue to dream. This is one of the things I dreamed about five, six years ago.”
For Brown, he said there’s only one mission left for him to accomplish.
“Only thing that’s left to do is get that ring.”
In his career, Brown has 632 receptions for 8377 yards and 50 touchdowns. He’s gone for over 1250 yards in four straight seasons. Another such year would make him the fourth to do so in NFL history, the first since Chad Johnson from 2003-2007.
Check out the entire interview here on Steelers.com.
