Ranking the top 25 wide receivers in NFL history…
Drafted 195th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2010 out of Central Michigan, Antonio Brown overcame his late-round status to become one of the most prolific receivers of the 2010s, excelling as a returner early on.
Over nine seasons with the Steelers, he earned seven Pro Bowls and four first-team All-Pro honors, leading the NFL in receptions twice (125 in 2014, 129 in 2015) and yards twice (1,698 in 2014, 1,533 in 2015).
Brown set records for most catches in a two-year span (265, 2014-2015) and three-year span (375, 2013-2015), with six seasons of 100+ receptions and 1,000+ yards. He was the first to top 1,000 receiving and return yards in one season (2011) and won AFC Offensive Player of the Year in 2017.
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Traded to the Oakland Raiders in 2019 amid disputes, Brown was released before playing due to off-field issues. He briefly suited up for the New England Patriots (one game, four catches, 56 yards, one TD) before release. Joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020, he won [Super Bowl LV](https://www.nfl.com/news/super-bowl-lv-biggest-highlight-lowlight-from-chiefs-buccaneers), catching five passes for 22 yards and a touchdown in the victory.
Brown’s career totals stand at 928 receptions, 12,291 yards and 83 touchdowns across 146 games, plus 2,934 return yards and five return scores, ranking him among the top 20 all-time in receptions and yards.
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Brown’s standout attributes were his elite quickness, precise footwork and exceptional hands, allowing him to create separation in tight coverage. His playing style was that of a route-running virtuoso: shifty, versatile in the slot or outside and explosive with the ball, often turning short passes into big gains.
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Heavily criticized for off-field controversies, including legal issues and team disruptions that shortened his career, Brown’s on-field brilliance remains undeniable.
Featured image via Aaron Doster/USA TODAY Sports