Playing Catch-up
THE NFL preseason begins Aug. 3. To get in the mood, SI spoke with Steelers receiver Antonio Brown—who, along with Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and Falcons linebacker Vic Beasley, is now a spokesman for DirecTV's NFL Sunday Ticket—about life at camp and more.
When I say the words "training camp," what do you think of?
Antonio Brown: Football season. But also consistency, preparation and developing a foundation.
The Steelers are one of the few teams that still hold their training camp at a small college, Saint Vincent. What do you think about doing that?
AB: I like it. Nothing gets in the way, no distractions. From 8:30 in the morning until 9:30 at night, it's all football.
What's your favorite way to spend downtime?
AB: We usually have a rookie show when camp is almost over. It's a chance to get to know the rookies and to have fun and set the pace for the season.
What'd you do for the show?
AB: I imitated James Harrison—the major muscles, socks all the way up, ankle weights. He laughed.
On a bye week, who is your favorite QB and defense to watch?
AB: Aaron Rodgers. I love the way he scrambles and how he plays the game—he always makes great decisions with the ball. On defense, I can't wait to watch Houston once they get JJ Watt and Jadeveon Clowney going. That's going to be good.
Your new extension (four years, $68 million) made you the highest paid receiver in NFL history. What did you make of Richard Sherman's comments about NFL players' needing to stand up and demand better contracts?
AB: The NFL is the only sport where you can be on a team five years and your contract's not guaranteed. You can go through the whole process of training camp and then as soon as it's the season, it's a week-to-week job and they can cut you at any moment. Each player's situation is different, but players are getting smarter and realizing that's not right.
The league has loosened its policy on touchdown celebrations. I imagine you're glad to see that?
AB: I am.
Have you started thinking about what those celebrations will be?
AB: Absolutely.
Any hints?
AB: Stay cool, brother.