Antonio Brown’s new jig: Dancing with the Steelers’ offensive linemen
PITTSBURGH — Over the last two seasons, Antonio Brown has shelled out $69,309 in fines for dirty dancing in the so-called No Fun League.
That’s a substantial amount of money for anyone, even for the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver.
Thanks to new rule changes announced by the NFL on Tuesday that will relax some excessive celebration penalties, Brown still won’t be allowed to twerk or do anything suggestive, but at least he should save himself some money and the Steelers some aggravation.
Players are now allowed to use the ball as props and allow teammates to join in on the celebration. Though the start of the 2017 NFL season is still four months away, Brown already is envisioning some new end zone moves. Exactly what he’ll choregoraph, he isn’t saying (“Man, you’ve got to look forward to it.”) but it’s safe to assume some offensive linemen will be more involved.
“I haven’t celebrated with (center Maurkice) Pouncey in the end zone since he’s been here or (right guard David) DeCastro,” Brown said. “Some of the O-line guys, those guys get excited to score. I’m sure they’ll be tired when we score and will be trying to get off the field, but I think it gives them another reason to be on the field.”
Brown, who turns 29 in July, has scored 35 touchdowns over the last three seasons, which prompted the Steelers to sign the three-time All-Pro to a long-term extension in February.
That money, $68 million over the next four seasons, is money that Brown would rather keep but he said it doesn’t place any extra pressure on him.
“There’s pressure every day, man, but you have to love it,” Brown said. “It comes with the job. My focus is now on helping us win the championship and preparing each day.”