The Pittsburgh Steelers have been adamant that they will not trade Antonio Brown if they cannot get fair value in return, but it sounds like they have already gotten plenty of attractive offers for the star wide receiver.
Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported on Wednesday that the Steelers have begun informing teams that talks surrounding Brown are moving quickly and they need to submit their best offers as soon as possible. Rapoport also notes that three new teams have entered the mix this week, while the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals are officially out.
The Antonio Brown sweepstakes are heating up: Sources say the #Steelers have begun telling teams that this is moving quickly and to give their best offers ASAP. This could wrap up soon. 3 new teams have jumped in the last 48 hours. Meanwhile, #Jets, #AZCardinals are out.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 6, 2019
The Steelers are motivated to move Brown prior to March 17, which is when they would have to pay him a $2.5 million roster bonus. They are likely doing everything they can to give teams a sense of urgency and create a bidding war.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter later added that the Steelers have informed teams they expect to finalize a trade for Brown by Friday.
Teams that have spoken to the Steelers about a potential Antonio Brown trade have been told that a deal is expected to be in place by Friday, per league sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 6, 2019
Multiple teams are said to have expressed interest in Brown, but one AFC team has been viewed as the leader in the clubhouse. Brown has one foot out the door in Pittsburgh.
