Report: Bucs, Brown not close on money
Antonio Brown is the final puzzle piece the Tampa Bay Buccaneers need to return their entire championship core, but money appears to be standing in the way of a reunion.
Brown and the Buccaneers discussed a deal this week, but they remain far apart in terms of contract value, NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reports.
"They want to bring him back, the Bucs do, just at a different number than he has in mind right now," Garafolo said.
Brown earned $2 million during his first season in Tampa Bay last year. The reigning Super Bowl champions are reportedly aiming to bring the veteran back around that number, while Brown wants a market-value deal.
The wideout racked up 45 catches for 483 yards and four touchdowns after starting the season on an eight-game suspension for multiple violations of the league's personal conduct policy.
T.Y Hilton and Marvin Jones have topped the market for 30-plus receivers this offseason, earning deals worth $8 million and $6.5 million per year, respectively. Meanwhile, DeSean Jackson signed for $4.5 million, and John Brown got $3.75 million.
The Bucs have managed to re-sign all their key free agents, most notably linebacker Lavonte David, pass-rusher Shaq Barrett, and wide receiver Chris Godwin.