Antonio Brown’s last four seasons have thrust him into the discussion for best wide receiver of all time, and now he’s got the cash to back that up. On Monday, he inked a four-year, $68 million extension to make him the highest-paid receiver in NFL history at $17 million per year, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
It’s pretty clear that being the highest paid player in the NFL is an honor Brown deserves. His 481 receptions over the last four seasons are the most in any four-season span in NFL history, according to ESPN Stats & Info.
Antonio Brown has signed an extension with the Steelers. His 481 catches over last 4 seasons are most in any 4-season span in NFL history
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) February 27, 2017
Last season Brown caught 106 passes for 1,284 yards and 12 touchdowns.
He had one year left on his deal before signing the extension. I guess even after the Facebook Live snafu, the Steelers decided they’d rather keep the elite receiver wrapped up through 2021.
While Brown does not have the postseason accomplishments of Tom Brady, there are some parallels that people have made, namely that he was a late-round pick and began his career as a backup before rising to the top of his position.
Brown had a little fun with his doubters on Twitter after signing his contract:
6th Round. 195th overall.
“Lacks functional strength…”I’m still hungry.
Just watch !! pic.twitter.com/vxvciWAK6Q— Antonio Brown (@AntonioBrown) February 27, 2017
The Steelers also have running back Le’Veon Bell for at least another year, and Ben Roethlisberger is obviously still around as well.
We’ll see if that core has what it takes to carry Pittsburgh to its first Super Bowl championship since 2009.