Funny how an athlete can go from a superhero to a villain … and back and forth again.
For several years, Antonio Brown was the model citizen (or so one thought) in Pittsburgh, working countless hours perfecting his craft as the No. 1 wide receiver for the Steelers and arguably all of the National Football League, for that matter, and maybe even of all-time (although Randy Moss and Jerry Rice might like to argue that).
Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger was the anti-hero, having settled a suit in early 2012 for an alleged rape in ’08. Big Ben denied the allegations but reached a settlement anyway.
One could have made the argument at that time and for several years thereafter that Brown was the team leader.
But then the locker room video surfaced. At that time, the incident could have been chalked up to an immature, overzealous player caught up in the throes of social media. The team went about their business, until Brown finally wore out his welcome in the Steel City.
Brown eventually became a part of Raider Nation, going to the hated Raiders where he was embraced by fans with open arms.
Then came the foot issue, having used a cryogenic chamber without the proper foot protection. Next, it was the head gear as Brown wanted to use his own helmet despite the fact that it did not meet the safety regulations now in place to combat concussions.
A battle ensued with management over fines issued to Brown due to missed practices, and reports of verbal threats to the Raiders’ GM this past preseason led to his quick departure.
Brown flew into Foxboro with some baggage and soon left with even more.
The star wide receiver, who was briefly welcomed to stay in Tom Brady’s home, played one game with the Patriots, was accused of sexual misconduct, and was subsequently released by Kraft, whose message (not to be confused with massage) was Get Out.
A Sports Illustrated story recently detailed Brown’s exploits, painting the picture of a troubled star athlete who mistreated nearly everyone he has ever encountered, leaving bills unpaid and looking down upon others as if he is a king.
I often find it amusing that pro athletes are looked upon as “heroes” if they are on “our” team, but “villains” when they play for the “enemy.”
The New England Patriots were our nation’s team after 9/11 … but became hated around the country following Spygate and Deflategate. The New Orleans Saints were revered for rallying everyone together following Hurricane Katrina … until Bountygate.
Maybe Brown is a lesson to all of us who continue to put professional athletes on a pedestal for their accomplishments when the real heroes are parents, teachers, police officers, firemen, doctors, nurses and the local coaches in our cities and towns.
