NFL: Antonio Brown Still Facing Possible Suspension

Antonio Brown was released by the New England Patriots on Friday, but his troubles with the National Football League aren’t over year.

Brown was cut by the Patriots after a tumultuous 11 days that saw him accused of rape and sexual assault in a federal lawsuit and then again accused of sexual assault by a second accuser, that he later allegedly harassed through text message.

After New England head coach Bill Belichick had multiple press conference hastily ended by his refusal to elaborate on Brown’s legal escapades, the Patriots had enough on Friday afternoon.

But Brown isn’t out of hot water yet. There is still the pending lawsuit, for which he reportedly rejected a multi-million-dollar settlement.

The NFL is also still investigating the claims of Brown’s former trainer Britney Taylor and will also now likely look at his behavior toward his second accuser.

Brown has not been suspended, but the league put out a press release on Friday night that made it clear that any team that signs Brown may not have him available for very long.

“Antonio Brown was released today by the New England Patriots and is currently an unrestricted free agent. Our office is presently investigating multiple allegations, some of which are the subject of pending litigation. We have as yet made no findings regarding these issues. The investigation is ongoing and will be pursued vigorously and expeditiously.

“As long as Mr. Brown is a free agent, placement on the Commissioner’s exempt list is not appropriate. If he is signed by a club, such placement may become appropriate at any time depending on the status of the investigation. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, he may also be subject to discipline if the investigation finds that he has violated the law or league policies.”

Brown is a free agent and does not have to clear waivers. Agent Drew Rosenhaus said he is searching for a new team.