Won't come cheap in trade

Steelers general manger Kevin Colbert said Wednesday that he'll try to trade Brown this offseason but won't make a deal if the offers from interested parties are unsatisfactory, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Between his age, recent antics and presumed desire for a new contract, Brown essentially has made it impossible for the Steelers to receive comparable on-field value in a trade. The team should still be able to acquire at least one early draft pick or a quality player in exchange, with the option of refusing all suitors if the offers are poor. Brown would then be left in a tricky situation, forced to choose between sitting out the 2019 season (with no pay) or awkwardly playing in Pittsburgh…read more

Still wants trade after meeting

Brown tweeted Tuesday about his meeting with Steelers owner Art Rooney II, saying they've cleared the air on several issues but both agree it's time for a parting of ways.

Analysis: Brown is mending fences in the sense that he doesn't want to leave Pittsburgh on a sour note, yet his words leave little doubt the trade request remains in place. The tweet also implies the Steelers intend to honor that request, though they'll surely expect a considerable return in exchange for one of the best wide receivers in NFL history. The situation could become a bit more complicated if Brown expects his next team to adjust his contract, which has three seasons and approximately $39…read more

Agrees to meet with Rooney

Brown had a change of heart and now plans to meet with Steelers owner Art Rooney II, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: This doesn't mean Brown has withdrawn his trade request, but it does give the Steelers one last opportunity to see if there is any way to mend the relationship. For all the frustration with his antics, the team can't be too happy about the prospect of taking a $21.12 million dead cap charge in 2019 if Brown is traded. There's also some question about what the Steelers would receive in a trade, as Brown's odd behavior and possible desire for a new contract will probably scare most teams away.…read more

Saying goodbye to Pittsburgh fans

Brown posted a tweet Tuesday thanking Steelers fans and saying it's "time to move on and forward."

Analysis: It's been three weeks since Brown dropped a hint on Instagram that he'd be interested in joining the 49ers, and he's now leaving minimal room for interpretation about his desire to be traded or released -- with Adam Schefter of ESPN reporting the 30-year-old has officially requested a trade. An outright release presumably isn't a real option for the Steelers, as Brown has already been handsomely paid in the form of signing and roster bonuses, leaving him with three years and approximately $39…read more

Hints at desire for new team

Brown said Thursday that he just wants to win and doesn't care where that happens, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Brown may still be open to a reconciliation with the Steelers, but he doesn't seem to be doing much to make it happen, instead adding fuel to the fire with an Instagram post that shows him hugging Jerry Rice while photoshopped into a 49ers uniform. Multiple teammates have spoken out in favor of Brown staying in Pittsburgh, and Steelers owner Art Rooney recently said he'd be willing to sit down with the star wideout to hear his side of the story, per Joe Rutter of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.…read more

Could stay or be traded

The Steelers are exploring trade options, but neither team nor player has shut the door on the possibility of Brown staying in Pittsburgh for 2019, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Any report of this nature needs to be taken with a grain of salt, as the Steelers have a clear incentive to create the perception they may keep Brown, hoping to maximize leverage in trade negotiations with other organizations. That being said, the two parties do have plenty of time discuss what's gone wrong in the relationship, assuming Brown eventually resumes contact with the team. Pittsburgh ideally would like to find a solution before March 17, the date when Brown is due a $2.5 million…read more

Could stay in Pittsburgh

Team owner Art Rooney II said Wednesday that the Steelers are "not closing any doors" on Brown's future with the franchise, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Rooney's comments amount to a slight change in his stance from a week earlier, when he said it was "hard to envision" the wideout remaining with the team in 2019. That said, Rooney expressed his disappointment that Brown and the team haven't been in contact since the end of the season, adding fuel to the notion that a parting of ways may be in the offing. While Fowler's report notes that the Steelers have yet to explore any trade discussions regarding Brown, Rooney acknowledged "there aren't…read more

Future with team uncertain

Though Steelers president Art Rooney II noted that the team does not plan to release Brown, he relayed Thursday that "all other options are on the table," Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh-Post Gazette reports.

Analysis: With Pittsburgh's star receiver having "skipped out on practices and team meetings" in advance of the team's season finale, it's now quite conceivable that Brown could be traded this offseason. There's still time for the two sides to patch things up, but at this stage Rooney admits that it would be "hard to envision" the wideout being with the Steelers at the start of training camp in July.

Team likely to hear trade offers

The Steelers are expected to consider trade inquiries about Brown (knee) from other teams this offseason, sources tell Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Analysis: The news isn't especially surprising after coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged Wednesday that he hasn't spoken with Brown since he was made inactive ahead of the Steelers' season finale against the Bengals over the weekend. While Brown was listed as unavailable due to a knee issue, earlier reports suggested that the inactive status may have been attributed to the wideout getting in a confrontation with a teammate Dec. 26 and subsequently skipping all other team activities prior to gameday. With…read more

Not communicating with team

Coach Mike Tomlin said Wednesday that Brown (knee) was held out of Sunday's 16-13 win over the Bengals due to a combination of injury and lack of communication with the team, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Brown had permission to miss practices Thursday and Friday with the expectation he would get an MRI on his knee and show up for a Saturday walk-through. He didn't do either of those things, instead waiting until Sunday to have agent Drew Rosenhaus inform the team that the wide receiver was ready to play, per Chris Adamski of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. At that point, the Steelers had understandably become frustrated with the lack of communication and told Brown he couldn't play in the game.…read more

May not have requested trade

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports Brown hasn't actually requested a trade.

Analysis: The most recent report suggests Brown made some angry comments last Wednesday but hasn't actually taken the step of having his agent request a trade. He didn't play in Sunday's 16-13 win over the Bengals, with multiple sources suggesting his absence was the product of a disagreement rather than a knee injury. It seems the issue may have started with Brown becoming angry at quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who said Tuesday on the radio that he views the 30-year-old wideout as a friend and hopes…read more

Asks for trade

Brown has requested a trade, Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports reports.

Analysis: Brown was listed on the Week 17 injury report as "knee/coach's decision," with multiple reports after the fact suggesting his absence from a 16-13 win over Cincinnati wasn't related to any injury. It now appears the superstar wide receiver is frustrated with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who said Tuesday that he views Brown as a friend and wants him back with the Steelers in 2019, per ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler. Brown's behavior was surprisingly erratic in 2018, but he still has three seasons…read more

May have been fine to play

Brown's absence from Sunday's 16-13 win over the Bengals may have been the result of a dispute with members of the organization rather than the knee injury that had been the cited reason for his inactive status, Gerry Dulac and Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette report.

Analysis: The report cites several unnamed sources who said the decision had nothing to do with a knee issue that was listed on the Week 17 injury report. Brown reportedly had a confrontation with an unnamed teammate Wednesday, then skipped out on team activities for the rest of the week. Coach Mike Tomlin referred to the superstar wideout as a game-time decision, and yet nobody ever saw Brown test out his knee before he was listed as inactive. This is the kind of situation that typically would lead to a…read more

Sits out season finale

Brown (knee) was inactive for Pittsburgh's 16-13 win over Cincinnati in Week 17, finished the 2018 season with 104 catches (on 168 targets) for 1,297 yards and 15 touchdowns in 15 games.

Analysis: Brown scored in all but three games and exceeded 100 receptions and 1,200 yards for a sixth consecutive season. However, after leading the Steelers in receptions and receiving yards for each of the past five seasons, he yielded that distinction to JuJu Smith-Schuster, who finished with 111 receptions for 1,426 yards. Brown has three years remaining on his current contract, and with Smith-Schuster and James Conner each under contract for two more seasons, the Pittsburgh offense should continue…read more

Inactive Sunday

Brown (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Analysis: With Brown sitting this one out, fellow wideout James Washington is in line to see added work in the Pittsburgh passing game Sunday opposite JuJu Smith-Schuster

Holding out hope to play

Brown (knee) is taking part in a pregame warmup and remains hopeful to play Sunday against the Bengals, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: After Brown failed to practice Saturday, the Steelers labeled the wideout as a game-time decision for Week 17, but there didn't seem to be much optimism about his chances of suiting up. According to Rapoport, Brown is "doing everything he can to play," but it's unclear if his activity early Sunday will be enough to earn him an active status in advance of the 4:25 p.m. EST kickoff. A call on Brown's availability looks destined to come down to the wire, with clarity on the matter potentially not…read more

Status trending down for Week 17

Brown (knee) was unable to practice Saturday and is being viewed as a game-time decision Sunday against the Bengals, but the Steelers aren't optimistic about the wideout's chances of playing, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Though he turned in a huge game against the Saints last week (14 receptions for 185 yards and two scores), Brown's knee apparently didn't respond well to playing on turf. He's battling soreness in the knee that prevented him from logging any reps Wednesday through Saturday, a troubling development with the Steelers' playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Steelers will re-evaluate Brown during a pregame warmup early Sunday before reaching a decision on his…read more

Listed as questionable for finale

Brown (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals after not practicing all week.

Analysis: Brown missed practice once again Friday due to his knee issue, but a player of his stature doesn't necessarily need to practice in order to play. "I gave him a vet day on Wednesday," coach Mike Tomlin noted Friday. "He got in here yesterday and didn't feel comfortable enough to do it. We sent him for tests today. We'll get the results of those tests and have more information. He is a veteran player. If he gets better, not a lot of physical repetitions needed to perform. We'll see where all of…read more

Getting knee checked out

Brown is slated to undergo tests to help determine the cause of his knee discomfort, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Per the report, coach Mike Tomlin is leaving the door open for Brown to possibly play Sunday against the Bengals, but that's hardly a lock at this point. Added clarity on the wideout's status should arrive no later than the release of the Steelers' final Week 17 injury report, due to be released Friday afternoon.

Dealing with sore knee

Brown missed Thursday's practice due to a knee issue, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports.

Analysis: Brown also missed Wednesday's practice with what appeared to be a routine "coach's decision" designation. Friday's session will thus be very telling with regard to Brown's status for Sunday's game against the Bengals. Per Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network, two of Brown's teammates relayed Thursday that they expect Pittsburgh's star wideout, who is dealing with a sore knee, to be a go this weekend. The Steelers need both a win and Baltimore loss in Week 17 to qualify for the playoffs.

Monstrous outing against Saints

Brown corralled 14 of 19 targets, putting up 185 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 31-28 loss to New Orleans.

Analysis: Brown entered Sunday's matchup against the Saints seeking vengeance, having failed to exceed 50 yards in consecutive games for the first time since Weeks 4-6 of the 2015 season. The Steelers' superstar wideout enjoyed a sterling performance across the board, setting season highs in targets (19), catches (14) and yards (185), while recording his third multi-touchdown outing of the year. Brown finds himself in the midst of what very well might be his fifth 1,400-yard season since 2013, ranking…read more

Finds end zone in key win

Brown brought in four of seven targets for 49 yards and a touchdown in the Steelers' 17-10 win over the Patriots on Sunday.

Analysis: Brown's numbers were certainly on the underwhelming side in terms of receptions and receiving yardage for the second straight week, but he salvaged the day to an extent for fantasy owners deploying him in their postseason matchups with a 17-yard scoring grab in the second quarter that snapped a 7-7 tie. Brown also drew plenty of defensive attention as usual, allowing plenty of other Pittsburgh pass catchers to be successfully targeted by Ben Roethlisberger. Brown has now uncharacteristically…read more

Held in check during loss

Brown brought in five of seven targets for 35 yards in the Steelers' 24-21 loss to the Raiders on Sunday.

Analysis: Brown was clamped down on in a what was a surprisingly impressive effort by the Raiders secondary. The veteran speedster's yardage total was a season low, while his reception tally equaled his fewest in any game. Brown also saw single-digit targets for the first time in four games in what was a significantly underwhelming performance. He'll look to bounce back against the Patriots in a pivotal Week 15 showdown.

Season-high receiving yards in loss

Brown caught 10 of 13 targets for 154 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 33-30 loss to the Chargers.

Analysis: Brown caught two passes on the opening drive including a 46-yard reception that set up the first of two 1-yard touchdown runs by James Conner. Brown scored his team-leading 12th touchdown with 17 seconds remaining in the first half to give Pittsburgh a 23-7 lead and the 154 receiving yards was his best in a game this season. He'll next face Oakland, and in his last game against the Raiders, Brown set his single-game highs in receptions (17), targets (23) and receiving yards (284).

Nine catches in loss at Denver

Brown hauled in nine of 12 targets, racking up 67 receiving yards during Sunday's 24-17 loss to the Broncos.

Analysis: Pittsburgh's all-world receiver has five or more catches in every single game this season, joining Julio Jones as the NFL's only wideouts to have maintained such a streak through Week 12. Brown has been a volume monster all season (entered Sunday ranked seventh in the NFL with 9.9 targets per game), and his output has reflected accordingly. He's finished top-12 in receiving yardage four times over his past seven appearances. What's more, the foundation of Brown's massive fantasy production in…read more

Sparks comeback with 78-yard score

Brown caught five of 13 targets for 117 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Jaguars.

Analysis: Brown and the Steelers offense were frustrated by a talented Jacksonville secondary for most of the afternoon, but the star wide receiver got free for a 78-yard touchdown late in the third quarter. That play sparked an unlikely comeback, which saw Pittsburgh score 20 unanswered points in the final 16:17. With 11 touchdowns this season -- including at least one in each of the past eight games -- Brown's showing why he's routinely in the conversation for best wide receiver in the game. He'll face…read more

Finds end zone again in Week 10 win

Brown brought in all six of his targets for 96 yards and a touchdown in the Steelers' 52-21 win over the Panthers on Thursday.

Analysis: Brown paced the Steelers in both receptions and receiving yardage while also getting into the end zone for the seventh consecutive game. The 30-year-old has nine of his 10 scores on the season over that span, and he's caught no fewer than five passes in any contest this season. While Brown's overall target volume is slightly down (10.6 per game, as compared to 11.6 per contest last season), he's still on pace for a sixth straight 100-reception campaign. He'll look to continue building up his…read more

Cited for speeding charge

Brown was cited by police Thursday in Ross Township, Pa. and charged with reckless driving, Channel 11 News Pittsburgh reports.

Analysis: According to the report, Brown was traveling in excess of 100 miles per hour before being pulled over by police. A Steelers spokesman relayed that the team is aware of the incident, but it likely won't impact Brown's availability for the Thursday night game against the Panthers. Though Brown's 11.6 yards per catch average is his lowest mark since 2010, the wideout has reached the end zone nine times through the Steelers' eight games, putting him on pace to surpass the career-high 13 touchdowns…read more

Touchdown streak at six games

Brown caught five of 11 targets for 42 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 23-16 win over the Ravens.

Analysis: Brown stretched his touchdown streak to six games with a six-yard score in the second quarter. He's operated below his lofty usual standards with only two triple-digit yardage performances thus far this season, but Brown's made up for that lack of yardage with nine touchdowns. Brown and the Steelers will have a quick turnaround with the Panthers coming to town Thursday in Week 10.

Scores twice in win

Brown caught six of his eight targets for 74 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 33-18 win over Cleveland.

Analysis: Brown caught a 43-yard touchdown from Ben Roethlisberger for Pittsburgh's first score, then added his second on a 1-yard screen pass just before halftime. His sideline grumbling earlier this season is a distant memory, as Brown has now scored a touchdown in five straight games and has eight of the team's 14 receiving scores through seven games. He'll now face the Ravens defense in Week 9, against which he caught five passes for 62 yards and a touchdown in a Week 4 loss.

Scores game-winning TD late

Brown caught five of six targets for 105 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 28-21 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: Brown was quiet for most of the game, but he won it by taking a slant 31 yards to the house with his team down 21-20 and 10 seconds remaining. The star wide receiver actually ranked fifth on the Steelers in targets, but his explosiveness allows Brown to excel even during dips in workload. Pittsburgh will be on bye in Week 7, at which time star running back Le'Veon Bell is scheduled to return to the team.

Finds end zone twice in Week 5 win

Brown brought in six of 13 targets for 101 yards and two touchdowns in the Steelers' 41-17 win over the Falcons on Sunday.

Analysis: Brown was able to get into the end zone from nine and 47 yards out, with the latter score serving as Ben Roethlisberger's longest completion of the afternoon. It was also the perennial All-Pro's first 100-yard and multi-touchdown game of the season, and he's now crossed the goal line on four occasions overall in the last three contests. He'll look to torment an old foe in the Bengals when the Steelers travel to Cincinnati for a Week 6 divisional showdown.

Snags another touchdown

Brown caught five of 11 targets for 62 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 26-14 loss to the Ravens.

Analysis: Brown was again heavily involved in the game plan, but the Steelers offense consistently struggled to sustain drives against a Ravens defense that entered the game allowing a league-low 5.1 yards per pass attempt and just 9.7 yards per reception. While it's surprising Brown has yet to crack the century mark through the first four weeks of the season, the six-time Pro-Bowler averaged over 101 receiving yards per game in 77 appearances from 2013 to 2017, making it seem as if it's only a matter of…read more

Scores in win over Bucs

Brown caught six of nine targets for 50 yards and a touchdown in Monday's 30-27 win over the Buccaneers.

Analysis: Despite all the noise leading up to this game, Brown had another relatively quiet outing, saved only by his second touchdown this season. Still, he has 42 targets through three games, so it may just be a matter of time before he busts out. That could come as soon as Week 4 against a Baltimore defense he torched for 213 yards on 11 catches in a 39-38 win last season.

Will be at team facility Wednesday

Brown will be present at the Steelers' facility Wednesday as the team begins preparation for its Week 3 matchup with the Buccaneers, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Brown's relationship with the Pittsburgh brass was called into question after he missed Monday's team meeting and film-review session. He also posted a comment on his personal Twitter account that could have been interpreted as him being receptive to a trade. Brown's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, released a statement Tuesday through Adam Schefter of ESPN denying that the wideout had any interest in being traded, also adding that Brown was away from the team Monday to address a personal matter. Head…read more

Meeting with coach Tuesday

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said he plans to meet with Brown later Tuesday but wouldn't reveal whether the wideout was excused from Monday's team meeting and film-review session, Judy Battista of NFL.com reports.

Analysis: In addition to missing the mandatory meeting, Brown made a post on his personal Twitter account suggesting that the Steelers should trade him. While it's unclear if Brown's comments were serious or not, Tomlin clarified Tuesday that the six-time Pro Bowler hasn't requested a trade, per Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The details regarding Brown's meeting with Tomlin likely won't be made public, but regardless of what topics are discussed, the prevailing belief is that the receiver…read more

Not with team Monday

Brown wasn't present for the Steelers' team meeting and film review Monday, though it's unclear if his absence was excused or not, Ed Bouchette and Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette report.

Analysis: According to Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network, head coach Mike Tomlin will address the media Tuesday at noon EDT, at which point the reason behind Brown's absence could be addressed. So long as Brown is present when the team reconvenes Wednesday, his status for the Week 3 game in Tampa Bay probably won't be much of a question. Even so, Brown's lack of attendance Monday may be more noteworthy than usual in light of a post made the same day on his personal Twitter account. In response to a…read more

Targeted 17 times

Brown grabbed nine of 17 passes for 67 yards during Sunday's 42-37 loss to Kansas City.

Analysis: Brown was targeted a whopping 17 times, but was kept mostly in check by Kansas City's defense. Frustrations boiled over as Brown could be seen arguing with his offensive coordinator. It shows how dominant Brown is that tempers can fly after back-to-back nine-catch games.

Finds end zone in season opener

Brown caught nine of 16 targets for 93 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 21-all tie with the Browns.

Analysis: Brown was peppered with targets from the get go, and although he struggled to connect with Ben Roethlisberger at times, he wound up with an impressive season debut through sheer volume. He generated a long gain of just 22 yards, which coincidentally came on his touchdown reception in the third quarter. Brown is a sure bet to handle as much work as he can handle virtually every week, and he's bound to break off larger gains because of his elite playmaking ability. He'll look to build on a solid…read more

In line to be full-go

Coach Mike Tomlin expects Brown (groin/hip) to be full-go for Sunday's season opener against the Browns, Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Brown didn't play in the preseason as he managed his groin/hip issue, but he's back at practice and looks good to go for Week 1. That notion would be cemented if the wideout is either not listed on Wednesday's injury report at all or is listed as a full practice participant. Whereas Brown's Week 1 status is not in doubt, Pittsburgh's star running back, Le'Veon Bell, has yet to sign his franchise tag with the team.

Takes field Monday

Brown, who sat out the Steelers' preseason finale, was at practice Monday, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: That's more than can be said of star running back Le'Veon Bell, who has yet to sign his franchise tag with the Steelers. While Bell's situation hasn't been settled, Brown signed an extension with the Steelers last February that ensures he'll remain a centerpiece of the team's offense for the foreseeable future.

Not playing Saturday

Brown wasn't in uniform for Saturday's preseason contest against the Titans, Mark Kaboly of The Athletic Pittsburgh reports.

Analysis: The Steelers indeed made the decision to hold out Brown at the last second, all but ensuring he won't play in a game before the regular season. With an unimpeded week of practice under his belt, though, he appears to have proven the health of the quad injury that has hindered him on occasion for the past month.

May play Saturday

Coach Mike Tomlin relayed Thursday that the Steelers will "decide at the 11th hour" if Brown (quad) will play Saturday against the Titans, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Brown has been a limited practice participant this week, though Tomlin noted that the team simply is "managing" the star wideout's reps and "being smart." Brown thus represents a risky DFS play this week, but his Week 1 status is not in question at this time, nor is his standing as the top fantasy option at his position.

Returns to practice

Brown (quad) participated in Sunday's practice.

Analysis: Brown has been bothered by his quad on-and-off since the beginning of training camp, but he's mostly been able to practice the past couple weeks. After sitting out Thursday's preseason loss to Green Bay, the 30-year-old wideout practiced in full pads Sunday and appeared to be moving without any issue. The Steelers may look to get Brown his first and only action of the preseason in Saturday's game against the Titans.

Won't play Thursday

Brown (quad) won't play Thursday against the Packers, the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: The same likely applies to several other key Pittsburgh veterans, but the decision to sit Brown on Thursday is an easy one, after he limped off the practice field Monday. Though the star wideout is said to be fine, there's no reason to push him to play in a meaninglessness game at this stage.

Avoids major injury

Though Brown limped off the practice field Monday, he didn't aggravate his quad injury and is reportedly fine, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Brown's short-term practice availability may be impacted, but news that his injury is nothing significant suggests that his top-tier status among fantasy's wideouts remains unchanged.

Looks okay after practice

Brown (quad) was walking and dancing around the sideline without a noticeable limp after he was removed from Monday's practice, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Brown initially limped off the field but apparently wasn't too bothered by the injury thereafter. He returned to practice Saturday for the first time since the end of July, and while initial reports suggest Monday's aggravation wasn't too serious, it's still something that needs to be monitored throughout the week. The Steelers have no incentive to push Brown back into action for Thursday's preseason game in Green Bay.

Leaves practice with limp

Brown limped off the practice field during Monday's session, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: There was a glimmer of hope regarding Brown's health when he returned to practice Saturday in full pads, but the wideout may have aggravated his quadriceps injury further during Monday's session. The Steelers haven't been particularly vocal about his recovery effort, so it remains to be seen if they'll clarify his situation in a timely manner.

Returns to practice Saturday

Brown (quad) is wearing full pads and participating in Saturday's practice, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Brown, who returned to the team Tuesday after tending to his minor quad injury back home, appears to be nearing full health as the Steelers wouldn't rush their star wide receiver back to practice on a bum leg. Although Brown's quad issue is essentially in the rearview mirror, he still might be held out of Thursday's preseason tilt against the Packers as a precaution. Other than Eli Rogers (knee), the remainder of the Steelers' receiving corps is in good health at this point.

Nearing return

Brown (quad) rejoined the Steelers on Tuesday and is expected to resume practicing this weekend, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Brown spent five days away from the team to receive evaluation and treatment for an undisclosed injury that apparently isn't too serious. The Steelers have no incentive to rush him back to practice, as Brown presumably would be held out of Thursday's preseason opener against the Eagles even if he were 100 percent healthy.

Minor injury issue

Brown, who was sent back to Pittsburgh to have an unspecified injury evaluated, is expected to be fine in a few days, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reports.

Analysis: Coach Mike Tomlin declined to specify the nature of Brown's issue, but at this stage it doesn't seem to be a major concern. Per Tomlin, it's "just a day-to-day, minor injury. Nothing to speak of." With that in mind, we'll continue to view the Steelers' star wideout as day-to-day.

Day-to-day with undisclosed injury

Brown is considered day-to-day with an undisclosed injury, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Per the report, the Steelers have sent Brown back to Pittsburgh for evaluation, but other than implying that the injury is minor, coach Mike Tomlin would not specify exactly what is ailing his star wideout.

Doesn't practice Wednesday

Brown didn't practice Wednesday due to an undisclosed injury, Dale Lolley of DKPittsburghSports.com reports.

Analysis: Per Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, Brown was spotted on the field Wednesday, so it looks like his issue is minor and his lack of practice participation may have been maintenance-related.

Brown restructured his contract Wednesday to facilitate more cap space for the Steelers in 2018, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Brown opted for the standard base-to-bonus restructure that teams use to push the cap charges for their top players into future years. The move frees up some room for the team to cover Le'Veon Bell's franchise tag, but it won't make negotiations on a long-term deal with the running back any easier. Even with the restructure, Brown still owns the top contract among NFL wideouts in terms of average annual value, a deserved reward after a 2017 campaign in which he caught 101 of 162 targets for a…read more

Two scores, 132 receiving yards in playoff loss

Brown totaled 132 yards and two touchdowns on seven receptions in Sunday's 45-42 AFC divisional-round loss to Jacksonville.

Analysis: Targeted 11 times, Brown showed no signs of the calf injury he suffered in Week 15, scoring Pittsburgh's first touchdown of the game. He added his second score on an incredible fourth-down catch as he fell backwards in the end zone. Given his outstanding performance this season, there's no reason to think that Brown won't continue to be among the league's elite wide receivers in 2018.

Suits up Sunday

Brown (calf/illness) is listed as active for Sunday's divisional-round playoff game against the Jaguars, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: He'll give it a go, as expected, but Schefter also reports that Brown's calf -- which he injured on Dec. 17 -- is "not close to 100 percent" at this stage. Moreover, cold weather at Pittsburgh's Heinz Field on Sunday is another variable that could impact Brown, who is bouncing back from a partially torn left calf muscle. The wideout's mere presence on the field will give the Jaguars coaching staff something to think about, but it remains to be seen how effective the NFL's regular-season leader…read more

'Not close to 100 percent,' but in line to play

Brown (calf/illness), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's divisional-round matchup with the Jaguars, is expected to "give it a go" and play, though his partially torn left calf muscle is "not close to 100 percent," a source informed Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Analysis: Nearly one month removed from the injury he suffered Dec. 17 in a Week 15 loss to the Patriots, Brown was able to put in two full practices this week before sitting out Friday's session with an illness. The ailment isn't expected to present any issues Sunday, but the Steelers are still harboring some concerns about Brown's calf holding up in the cold weather at Heinz Field. The team will evaluate Brown during warmups, but unless the calf presents serious problems as he takes part in pregame…read more

Listed as questionable, expected to play Sunday

Brown (calf/illness) is listed as questionable for Sunday's playoff game against the Jaguars after missing Friday's practice because he was under the weather.

Analysis: Just when it appeared that Brown was past the partially torn left calf muscle that he suffered on Dec. 17, after practicing fully both Wednesday and Thursday, an illness prevented the wideout from working Friday, with coach Mike Tomlin sending Brown home for the day, per Katherine Terrell of ESPN.com. Despite Brown's absence from the Steelers' last practice of the week, Tomlin expects his star pass-catcher to play this weekend, an outcome that will be confirmed, either way, upon the release of…read more

Under the weather

Brown missed Friday's practice due to an illness, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: On the plus side, the wideout, who is bouncing back from a calf injury, had looked good at practice earlier in the week. While sitting out Friday's session with a case of the flu is not optimal, we still expect Brown to be a go in Sunday's playoff game against the Jaguars. We'll circle back on his status later Friday to see how the Steelers list him on their final injury report of the week.

Practices fully Wednesday

Brown (calf) practiced fully Wednesday.

Analysis: Brown, who hurt his calf back on Dec. 15, is thus on track to return to action for Sunday's playoff game against the Jaguars. Assuming no setbacks in the next couple of days, look for the Steelers' top wideout to approach this weekend's contest minus an injury designation.

Practices fully Monday

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin classified Brown (calf) as a "full" participant in Monday's practice, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Because the Steelers won't open their postseason until Sunday against the Jaguars, the team won't issue its first official practice report until Wednesday. In any event, Brown's activity level Monday suggests that he'll be a full participant come Wednesday, which would likely allow him to avoid an injury designation heading into the weekend. That speaks to the dramatic improvement Brown has shown in his recovery after the left calf issue prevented him from playing in the Steelers' final two…read more

Returns to drills Monday

Brown (calf) returned to practice Monday, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: On Sunday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Brown would have been able to play in the wild-card round, if the Steelers weren't one of the top two seeds in the AFC playoffs. As such, Brown's presence at Monday's session wasn't a surprise in the least and could forecast ridding himself of a designation before the end of the week. Adding credence to such a thought process was a comment from Brown himself Monday. "I'm going to be who I am [Sunday against the Jaguars]," he told Aditi Kinkhabwala…read more

Poised to return next week

Brown (calf) is on track to be at full strength for next weekend's divisional-round playoff contest, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Brown, who has not played since Week 15, benefited from the Steelers' first-round playoff bye and is now on track to return to the team's lineup for next Sunday's home playoff contest against an opponent to be determined. Added context regarding the star wideout's status will arrive next week, when the Steelers submit their divisional-round practice/injury reports.

Progressing in rehab

Head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that Brown (lower leg) is progressing well in his rehabilitation, Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Brown hasn't seen the field since Week 15, when he sustained a significant contusion to his lower leg. If the Steelers hadn't locked up a first-round bye as the No. 2 seed in the AFC playoffs, Tomlin stated Brown would likely have been listed as questionable for a game during wild-card weekend. However, the Steelers don't suit up again until the divisional playoffs, kicking off Sunday, Jan. 14 at 1:05 p.m. ET. With nearly two more weeks to focus on his recovery, Brown appears to be in a good…read more

Brown (lower leg) missed his second straight game, finishing the 2017 season with 101 catches (on 162 targets) for 1,533 yards and nine touchdowns in 14 games. He added 61 yards on 11 punt returns.

Analysis: The Steelers have a first-round bye, giving Brown an extra week to recover before their Week 19 AFC divisional round game. Prior to the injury, Brown was on pace for over 1,850 yards, which would have been a career-high, and he likely would have scored double-digit touchdowns for a fourth straight season. Despite missing two games, Brown still led the league in receiving yards, his second time doing so in the past four seasons, and has now finished among the top five in receiving yards in each…read more

Officially ruled out for Week 17

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday that he didn't have an update on Brown's (lower leg) condition, but indicated the wideout has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Browns, Chris Adamski of TribLive.com reports.

Analysis: After Brown went down Week 15 against the Patriots with what Tomlin later termed a significant lower-leg contusion, it was always believed that the six-time Pro Bowler was targeting the playoffs rather than either of the final two regular-season contests for a return. Tomlin's comments Tuesday suggests that remains the case for Brown, who will benefit from an additional rest beyond Week 17 with the Steelers clinching a first-round bye following Monday's victory over the Texans. JuJu…read more

Targets return in playoffs

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport indicated Sunday that the Steelers expect Brown, who is out this week with what is described as a calf strain, to be back in form "by the time they take the field in the playoffs whether or not that is the first round or whether or not they get a bye."

Analysis: Rapoport goes on to suggest that the wideout's injury is thought to be minor enough that Brown could play in Week 17, if needed, but the plan is to hold him out, with the postseason in mind. Rapoport's report is more optimistic than the take ESPN's Adam Schefter has relayed, one which implies that Brown is not a lock to be ready in advance of the wild-card round of the NFL playoffs. In either scenario, however, it's assumed that Brown won't play in the Steelers' regular-season finale against…read more

May not be ready for potential wild-card game

Brown (lower leg) likely wouldn't be available for the wild-card round of the playoffs if the Steelers fail to finish as one of the AFC's top two seeds, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: At 11-3, the Steelers are currently second in the conference entering Week 16 after losing to the 11-3 Patriots a week earlier. Pittsburgh has winnable games against sub-.500 teams in the Texans and Browns to close out the season, but may need to win both in order to ensure the 10-4 Jaguars don't leapfrog them in the standings. Brown, who isn't playing Sunday in Houston, hasn't officially been ruled out for the Week 17 matchup with Cleveland, but that seems highly unlikely after the wideout was…read more

Officially out for Week 16

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed Tuesday that Brown is dealing with a significant lower-leg contusion and would be held out of Monday's game against the Texans, Aditi Kinkhabwala of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Tomlin didn't offer up any further details on Brown's injury nor did he comment on the wideout's status beyond Sunday, but it's worth noting that Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported Monday that the NFL's leading receiver is dealing with a partially torn calf muscle that would keep him sidelined for the remainder of the regular season. Brown's absence for at least Week 16 will mark the first time he's missed a contest due to injury since he sat out the Steelers' divisional-round loss to the…read more

Out for Weeks 16 and 17

Brown (calf) will miss the rest of the regular season, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Diagnosed with a partially torn calf muscle, Brown should be able to rest without much consequence -- at least for the Steelers -- until the divisional round of the playoffs, considering they merely need to beat the Texans and Browns (or have Jacksonville lose a game) to clinch the No. 2 seed and a first-round bye. While he might try to push for a quick return if circumstances were different, Brown seems to accept the current situation, even tweeting that he views the injury as a "minor…read more

Suffers partial calf tear

Brown has a partially torn calf muscle and isn't expected to play in Week 16 against the Texans, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: Brown left Sunday's 27-24 loss to the Patriots early in the second quarter and was taken to the hospital, finishing with two catches for 24 yards on three targets. X-rays revealed that he avoided any broken bones, but it nonetheless seems he suffered a fairly serious injury. The initial report suggests the Steelers expect him to miss Week 16 and possibly Week 17, before returning for the start of the playoffs. While another loss could drop them out of the No. 2 seed, the Steelers probably feel…read more

Headed to hospital for evaluation

Brown (calf) is headed to the hospital for further evaluation and won't return to Sunday's game against the Patriots, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Brown was removed early in the second quarter and initially deemed questionable to return. A previous report said X-rays came back negative and the injury was believed to be a bruise, but the need for a trip to the hospital suggests the Steelers still haven't eliminated the possibility of a severe injury. The team officially ruled Brown out for the rest of the contest at the beginning of the third quarter. Martavis Bryant and Eli Rogers are handling expanded roles alongside JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Won't return to Sunday's game

Brown is headed to the hospital to have his left calf injury further evaluated.

Analysis: As a result, Brown will not return to Sunday's game and the fact that he has been taken to the hospital suggests that the wideout's status for next Monday's game against the Texans could be in danger. In Brown's absence, the Steelers' Week 15 wideout corps will be headed by Martavis Bryant, JuJu Smith-Schuster and Eli Rogers.

Diagnosed with bruised calf

Brown has been diagnosed with a bruised calf, indicating that X-rays came back negative, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Analysis: Brown was removed from Sunday's game against the Patriots early in the second quarter after he collided with a defender on an incomplete throw to the end zone. He was unable to return before halftime, but the Steelers aren't yet ready to rule him out for the entire contest, deeming the superstar wide receiver questionable to return. Martavis Bryant and Eli Rogers have taken on expanded roles in Brown's absence.

Exits game with left calf injury

Brown suffered a left calf injury in Sunday's game against the Patriots.

Analysis: Prior to his exit, Brown caught two of his three targets for 24 yards. Next up for the team's wideout looks in his absence are JuJu Smith-Schuster and Martavis Bryant. The Steelers deemed Brown questionable to return to Sunday's game.

Heads to locker room

Brown was forced out of Sunday's game against the Patriots with an apparent leg injury.

Analysis: Initially the star wideout had trouble putting weight on the affected leg, and after being checked out on the sideline, he headed to the locker room for further evaluation. Once the Steelers officially report his injury, we'll circle back on Brown's status.

Brown secured 11 of 18 targets for 213 yards during Sunday's 39-38 victory over the Ravens.

Analysis: Brown remained white hot while also serving as an integral part of this come-from-behind victory that kept the Steelers atop the AFC. His uncanny ability to identify soft spots in defensive coverages is seemingly unrivaled in today's game and helped the Steelers offense hum up and down the field during the games final minutes. The three-time All Pro is now averaging 156.8 receiving yards across his past four outings but now enters a Week 15 matchup with a New England team that's allowed just…read more

Cleared from injury report

Brown (toe) was a full practice participant Friday and doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Joe Rutter of TribLive.com reports.

Analysis: Brown played through the same injury last week and caught eight of 15 targets for 101 yards and a touchdown in a 23-20 win over the Bengals. Unlike last week, his availability won't be in any question as the Steelers prepare for a primetime matchup with an AFC North foe. The Baltimore pass defense has been among the best in the league, but the loss of top cornerback Jimmy Smith (Achilles) should work in Brown's favor.

Sits out Thursday's practice

Brown (toe) did not practice Thursday.

Analysis: Brown ended up as a game-time decision for this past Monday night's win over the Bengals after missing practice both Friday and Saturday, but he ended up playing every snap on offense in the game, en route to hauling in eight catches for 101 yards and a TD. We suspect that the star wideout isn't in danger of missing Sunday's contest against the Ravens, a notion that would be solidified by Brown's return to practice, in any capacity, Friday.

Brown caught eight of 15 targets for 101 yards and a touchdown in Monday night's 23-20 win over the Bengals.

Analysis: Brown overcame a toe injury to suit up, and although the rainy conditions were less than ideal, he still put up another 100-yard game. The wideout has now topped the century mark in three straight appearances, each of which have seen him hit pay dirt at least once as well. Brown's touchdown Monday was particularly important, as it tied the game with under four minutes remaining. Although Brown took a shot to the head while making that catch -- a six-yard reception in the back of the end zone --…read more

Active Monday

Brown (toe) is listed as active for Monday night's game against the Bengals, Teresa Varley of the Steelers' official site reports.

Analysis: It remains to be seen how much the toe issue that caused the wideout to miss practice both Friday and Saturday impacts Brown's mobility Monday night, but those who waited things out on the NFL's leader in receiving yards (1,195) are in line to see some production from him in Week 13. Note that he appeared to favor his sprained toe during a pregame workout, per Adam Schefter of ESPN. As a result, an in-game setback would allow the likes of JuJu Smith-Schuster, Darrius Heyward-Bey and Justin…read more

Will test out toe in pregame workouts

Brown, who is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bengals, plans to test out his injured toe in warmups before the Steelers render a decision on his status, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Analysis: It appears the Steelers are treating Brown as a game-time decision, putting the wideout at risk of sitting out a game for the first time since the 2015 playoffs, when he sat out a divisional-round loss to the Broncos while recovering from a concussion. In the event Brown is sidelined, the Steelers would lean on some combination of JuJu Smith-Schuster, Darrius Heyward-Bey and Justin Hunter to split Brown's role, while Martavis Bryant and Eli Rogers would be used in their more traditional…read more

Game-time decision for Monday Night Football

Brown (toe) is called a game-time decision for Monday night's game against the Bengals by Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Analysis: If Brown ends up active Monday night, he's a hard player to withhold from fantasy lineups. However, in the event that he's scratched for the contest, Martavis Bryant, and possibly JuJu Smith-Schuster, would figure to head the team's Week 13 wideout corps, with Eli Rogers, Darrius Heyward-Bey and Justin Hunter also in the mix. On the Bengals' side, while A.J. Green is obviously not a last-minute waiver-wire option, Brandon LaFell -- and perhaps even Tyler Boyd -- could be for those scrambling…read more

Status still uncertain for Monday

The Steelers are hopeful that Brown (toe), who is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bengals, will play in the contest, but the team has been preparing its other receivers in the event the wideout is sidelined, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

Analysis: Given that Brown has shown incredible toughness while playing through pain in the past -- he's missed only one game (the Steelers' divisional-round loss to the Broncos in 2015 while he was dealing with a concussion) due to injury the last four-plus seasons -- it would be difficult to bet against the wideout suiting up Monday, though his status may go down as a game-time call. Brown was held out of practice for a second straight day Saturday due to the toe injury, but he was dressed for the…read more

Listed as questionable for Week 13

The Steelers have listed Brown (toe) as questionable for Monday's game against the Bengals, Ray Fittipaldo of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis: Brown was added to the injury report Friday after missing practice to nurse an ailing toe. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network subsequently reported the issue was minor and that the pass catcher "should be fine going forward." However, his presence on the team's final injury report does put his status for Monday night's game into question. JuJu Smith-Schuster, Martavis Bryant and Eli Rogers all figure to be in line for increased usage should Brown ultimately miss the contest. Final confirmation on his…read more

Dealing with minor toe issue

Brown missed Friday's practice with a toe injury.

Analysis: In-week additions to the injury report can be concerning, but in this case, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network relays that Brown's toe issue is minor and that the wideout "should be fine going forward." Brown's status will be revisited Saturday, but if the receive returns to practice, he could be removed from the Steelers' Week 13 injury report in advance of Monday's game against the Bengals.

Brown caught 10 passes on 12 targets for 169 yards and two touchdowns during Sunday's 31-28 victory over the Packers.

Analysis: Brown caused problems for the Packers all night long, as nine of his 10 catches went for first downs. Even after his two touchdowns Sunday, the three-time All-Pro receiver somehow managed to save his best act for the end as his second-to-last catch was a brilliant grab along the sidelines in which Brown barely got both feet inbounds. He's now put up 313 yards and five touchdowns in his last two appearances while notching 10 receptions on both occasions, but it should be noted that each…read more

Tramples Titans secondary in win

Brown brought in 10 of 13 targets for 144 yards and three touchdowns in Thursday's 40-17 win over the Titans. He also fumbled once but it was recovered.

Analysis: After disappointing fantasy owners just four days prior with a lackluster showing against a beatable Colts secondary, Brown more than made up for it versus the Titans. He got his barrage started early with a 41-yard scoring reception to cap off the Steelers' first possession, subsequently added a leaping five-yard touchdown catch and an acrobatic 10-yard, one-handed end-zone grab in which he trapped the ball against his helmet in the second half. It was Brown's first multi-touchdown game of…read more