NFL warns that Antonio Brown could be placed on Commissioner’s exempt list if signed

The NFL on Friday issued a statement regarding Antonio Brown following the wide receiver’s release by the New England Patriots.

The league said in its statement that they are “vigorously and expeditiously” investigating multiple allegations against Brown.

In response to questions re: Antonio Brown’s status: pic.twitter.com/dxjdYptzso

— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) September 21, 2019

The important part of the statement is the point that Brown could be placed on the Commissioner’s exempt list if signed, which would allow him to be paid by a new team but prevent him from playing. The league also said that Brown could face discipline from the league if they find he violated the law or Personal Conduct Policy.

The statement seems to be a warning to teams thinking of signing Brown.

It’s hard to imagine a team signing Brown under these conditions and with so many outstanding legal matters. The league could consider Brown’s text messages to a woman who accused him of sexual misconduct as harassing and intimidating, which would be grounds for discipline under the Personal Conduct Policy.

Though the likelihood of Brown playing this season seems slim, a 2020 return could be possible once the league completes its investigation and rules on Brown.