Gruden defends AB amid helmet issue: 'We're supporting him'

The Oakland Raiders took the field without Antonio Brown as they opened their preseason on Saturday night.

Following reports that Brown is suffering from a foot injury that a cryogenic chamber incident caused, and that the All-Pro receiver is fighting to wear a banned and outdated helmet model, head coach Jon Gruden defended his unhappy player.

"There's been a lot of reports out there. I can't say I agree with all of them," Gruden said following a 14-3 win over the Los Angeles Rams. "But I support this guy. I think that's what needs to be said.

"This foot injury wasn't his fault. This was a total accident. It really wasn't his fault and it's a serious injury. I know some people are smarting at it, but it's really not a laughing matter. The guy was hurt, he's innocent, and he didn't do anything wrong. And the helmet thing is a personal matter to him. He has a strong feeling about what he's worn on his head and we're supporting him."

Brown spent two hours in a hearing on Friday with an independent arbitrator. He was arguing to use a 10-year-old helmet model that the NFL recently outlawed because it no longer meets league standards.

Last year, the NFL provided a one-year grace period for players using outdated helmets. Those players are now required to wear helmets that meet the league's safety standards.

Brown has reportedly threatened to retire over the helmet issue, but Gruden hopes his star receiver will return to camp soon.

"Whatever his decision is, we'll stand by it, but we're confident that he's going to be a huge factor for the Raiders for years to come," Gruden said.