Las Vegas, NV – May 14, 2025
In a stunning development that’s already shaking up the NFL headlines, former All-Pro wide receiver Antonio Brown has officially announced his return to the league — but this time, not as a player, but as the new wide receivers coach for the Las Vegas Raiders.
The announcement comes after what sources describe as a “high-level and unexpected call” from the Raiders front office, led by head coach Pete Carroll and team owner Mark Davis, seeking to inject new energy and elite experience into their receiving corps.
From Controversy to Coaching
Brown, 36, last played in the NFL in 2021 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and had since kept a low profile after a career marked by brilliant on-field performance and off-field controversy. Despite his complicated exit from the Raiders in 2019 — before ever playing a regular-season snap — Brown has remained connected to football through independent workouts, youth camps, and brief stints in semi-pro leagues.
Today, he took to social media with a heartfelt post:
“Full circle. I’m grateful for the call, the opportunity, and the chance to lead young men in the game I love. Let’s work, Raider Nation.”
A Bold Move by the Raiders
This hire reflects a bold and unconventional decision by Pete Carroll, who is known for his willingness to take chances on high-upside personalities. With a young and unproven receiving unit featuring names like Tre Tucker, Jakobi Meyers, and rookie Jermaine Burton, the Raiders are clearly banking on Brown’s unmatched route-running skills, deep game knowledge, and personal experience to develop the next generation of offensive stars.
“Antonio brings a rare perspective to the receiver room — he’s played at the highest level, against the best in the game,” said Carroll in a brief team statement. “This is a fresh chapter for him and for us.”
Reaction Around the League
The hire has already sparked mixed reactions across the league and social media, with some praising the Raiders for giving a second chance to a once-dominant player, and others questioning the risk due to Brown’s past behavior. However, sources say Tom Brady, now a part-owner of the Raiders and former teammate of Brown’s, personally supported the decision.
“Nobody worked harder than AB when it came to preparation. If he brings even half of that into coaching, those receivers will be better for it,” a former teammate told NFL Network.
What’s Next
Antonio Brown is expected to join the team this week for organized team activities (OTAs), where he’ll begin hands-on work with the wide receivers and offensive staff. His journey from Pro Bowl receiver to position coach could mark one of the NFL’s most unexpected redemption arcs in recent memory.
