Maybe this finally gets wrapped up.
The Antonio Brown sweepstakes might soon be coming to a close. NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport tweeted that the Pittsburgh Steelers are telling teams to get them their best offers ASAP, while Adam Schefter is reporting the Steelers are telling teams a deal is expected to be done by Friday. Rapoport reported the Jets, Cardinals, and Broncos have all dropped out of the running,
The 49ers have not been mentioned in connection with Brown for some time now, and updated betting odds are reflecting them dropping out of the picture. The Oakland Raiders are currently betting favorites at BetOnline.ag (via OddsShark) at +350. They’re followed by the Titans (+550), Cardinals (+750), and Packers (+1000). The 49ers follow at 12/1 — tied with the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and Brown staying with the Steelers.
Brown’s social media activities the past two months have pointed to the 49ers, but it would appear the team is comfortable backing off from adding him at this point. The 49ers need another playmaker for this offense, but they could decide it’s best just to go through the draft. Odell Beckham Jr. could still end up an option, but until the Giants get more aggressive on that front, I’m not holding my breath.
If someone does end up trading for Brown, it will be interesting to see what kind of draft pick haul the deal includes. There was talk the Steelers wanted a first, but subsequent reports suggested outsiders thought they should expect a third for Brown. There’s a lot of room for movement as a potential deadline approaches.
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