While negativity has mostly surrounded the headlines around Antonio Brown recently, the former sixth round pick out of Central Michigan decided to give back to the school that helped him become the player he is today.
It was announced on Friday that the former Chippewa has donated six Dragon Seat heated benches for the players to use on the sidelines. Dragon Seats remains the only manufacturer of heated football benches used by the National Football League.
“These benches really help me stay loose and ready to perform no matter the conditions and I am excited to see how they help current and future Chippewas succeed” said Brown via cmuchippewas.com. “CMU will always be a special place for me and I am happy to be able to give back.”
During his three years at Central Michigan, Brown totaled 305 receptions for 3,199 yards and 22 touchdowns. Brown also played alongside All-Pro defensive player JJ Watt at CMU, before Watt ultimately transferred after 14 games to Wisconsin.
“Right after we announced Coach McElwain’s hire, Antonio and his team reached out to see what they could do to help make our program better” said Director of Athletics Michael Alford. “I know this is a product that Antonio really values and helps him during games, so it was a natural choice when deciding on a project that will have the biggest impact on our student-athletes.”
Brown holds Chippewa records for the top three highest seasons in terms of receptions, while also being named to the All-MAC teams all three seasons and the All-Conference teams in 2008 and 2009.
The benches are valued at $105,000, and will be branded in maroon/gold to adopt CMU school colors.