Antonio Brown addresses media for the first time with Patriots: 'I’m just here to focus on ball'

Alexis Mansanarez

•
Antonio Brown addresses media for the first time with Patriots: 'I’m just here to focus on ball' image

Antonio Brown made his first comments as a Patriot on Thursday after skipping the postgame media session after his debut.

When he finally faced reporters, in a quick one-minute interview, he expressed gratitude for an opportunity to play with the Patriots. He avoided going into detail about the recent sexual assault allegations and his availability for the team's Week 3 contest against the Jets.

"I'm just super grateful to be here, thankful for Bill Belichick and Tom Brady," Brown said. "I've got a lot of offense to learn and catch up but I'm excited and grateful to be here."

Brown, who was not eligible Week 1, played in the Patriots' 43-0 victory over the Dolphins on Sunday where he led the receiving corps with four catches for 56 yards and one touchdown.

He signed with the Patriots after a tumultuous offseason with the Raiders.

"It's been a tremendous honor (to play with Brady)," Brown said. "He's been here a long time, a lot of details, a lot of work ethic. He's a great guy to be around, just inspires everyone here."

When Brown was asked Thursday about "everything else going on in his life," alluding to the allegations from two women — his former trainer, Britney Taylor, and an artist, who declined to be named.

Brown, through his lawyer, has both denied the allegations and said the relationship with Taylor was consensual.

"It's football. I'm grateful to play football. Every time you walk in the doors here you (have to) be your best for the team so every time I walk in here I just want to make sure I'm prepared."

Brown does remain eligible to play this upcoming Sunday.

"I’m just here to focus on ball and looking forward to getting out there in the home stadium and being with the team," he said.

Alexis Mansanarez