Antonio Brown Purchases Ownership Stake in Arena League’s Albany Empire

He has family ties to the longtime Arena Football franchise.

NFL free agent wide receiver Antonio Brown has purchased an ownership stake in the Albany Empire of the National Arena League, the team announced on Thursday.

Brown, who will be a part owner of the team, will also be joined by his dad Eddie, who will also be part of the franchise. Eddie Brown was a star offensive player for the Albany Firebirds in the 1990s.

“First and foremost, I’m excited and grateful to be a part of the Albany Empire,” Brown said in the introductory press conference. 

Albany Empire Press Conference - Live Stream https://t.co/d1gECm2El6

— Albany Empire (@thealbanyempir) March 2, 2023

“I grew up here watching my dad be successful and watching this building erupt. … For me, to be in a family-oriented city like Albany, being here with my dad and my kids and just giving the community and players the opportunity to live out their dreams. So for me, it was easy. I’m just excited to be here and excited to bring Albany Empire a ‘three-peat’ and see the community and these players live out their dreams,” Antonio continued on Thursday.

Brown hinted at the announcement on his social media account on Wednesday night.

“Albany, New York. I’m here!” Brown said. “It’s a big announcement in the morning. Stay tuned.”

Brown did not play in the NFL this past season and has not been part of an organization since walking off the field during a game with the Bucs during the 2021 season. 

Over his career, Brown has caught 928 passes for 12,291 yards and 83 touchdowns with the Steelers, Patriots and Buccaneers. He won one Super Bowl title in 2020 in Tampa Bay with Tom Brady.