Bucs still haven't released WR Antonio Brown after exit?

Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Report: Buccaneers still haven't released WR Antonio Brown after troubling exit

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 1/4/22

The song remains the same regarding Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Brown following his dramatic and bizarre mid-game exit during Sunday's victory at the New York Jets. Brown may never again play another meaningful snap for the defending Super Bowl champions, but ESPN's Adam Schefter reports the Buccaneers did not release the seven-time Pro Bowl selection for the second consecutive day.

For the second straight day, WR Antonio Brown did not show up on today’s NFL wire, meaning the Buccaneers still hold his rights, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 4, 2022

It was said ahead of the "Monday Night Football" matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers that the NFL will not punish Brown for his actions on the first Sunday afternoon of 2022 and also that the Buccaneers were involved in discussions with the league over what designation to use for the 33-year-old.

For example, the Buccaneers could make Brown unavailable for up to four games by suspending him without pay for conduct detrimental to the team, a decision that would sideline him through conference championship weekend.

Brown would be subject to waivers if released and could either be claimed by any other team or allowed to pass into free agency. He could theoretically sign with a club possessing a playoff berth if he went unclaimed, and NFL insider Josina Anderson reported earlier on Tuesday Brown could have a spot on an active roster now if he "wants" one.

Brown reportedly told Buccaneers coaches that a lingering ankle injury that cost him time throughout the fall was why he didn't want to return to the field at the Jets. According to Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk, that supposed setback could impact how Tampa Bay proceeds as it pertains to Brown's availability.

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