Antonio Brown Reported to Make Patriots Debut despite Rape Accusations

Wide receiver Antonio Brown is now eligible to play for the New England Patriots ahead of their clash against Miami Dolphins despite a civil suit being filed against him on charges of rape.

Earlier it was reported that Brown was being considered for the Commissioner Exempt List should he be charged in the case. But most recently, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Brown would be eligible to play against Miami.

“At this point, NFL will not place Antonio Brown on commissioner exempt list, as there is no criminal investigation, making him eligible to play Sunday vs. Miami, per sources. NFL has opened its investigation, which will include interviews with Antonio Brown and his accuser,” he tweeted.

Brown left Oakland Raiders without playing a game for the them, and signed for the Patriots last week. He will join Josh Gordon, another wide receiver in the team. Brown, 31, already seems to have created an impression in his new team. Gordon was full praise when asked about his new teammate.

“Dedicated player. One of the hardest-working guys in the league,” Gordon said. “He’s come in here every day and done the same thing. He’s lived up to the great Antonio Brown name.

“He’s one of the best in the league. So, I would expect that from him to continue. I think he expects it of himself. So, he’s a great addition. Glad to have him.”

Gordon, who came mid-season last year following a trade from the Cleveland Browns, admitted it was not easy to settle in the new team, but his colleagues helped it happen quickly.

“It can definitely be tough. I know it was for me,” he said. “Everybody else will get it differently, sometimes faster, sometimes slower, it just depends on how fast you can get rid of what you once knew to adopt a new — everything: environment, offense, way of life.”

“I think as professionals, a lot guys know this is part of the game, they can embrace it and adjust quickly, and that’s how you adapt and survive in this league.”

Brown has been practicing for the past three days with the Patriots team, and is expected to make his debut on Sunday.