Antonio Brown will have his best year in 2017
The Steelers offensive attack was highly regarded as one of the top of its class in 2016 and most believe that they will repeat a similar feat this upcoming season. This idea stems from the talented skills of players such as running back Le’Veon Bell, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, and of course, wide receiver Antonio Brown.
Not only will these players make a difference in 2017, but Antonio Brown’s stats will be the best they’ve ever been in his career. There are several reasons we here at Steel City Underground believe this, and I’ve been handed the task of explaining why so here we go!
As we all know, Le’Veon Bell is returning this season to the Steelers backfield. And what a force he brings with him. Not only did Bell finish with 1,268 rushing yards and seven touchdowns in 2016, but he also took on the responsibility of drawing coverage off of Antonio Brown. With his return under the franchise tag confirmed, he will continue a similar role this season, as he is expected to carry the load in the running game and be a highly effective receiver out of the backfield.
While Le’Veon is a big reason Antonio will be great this year, the supporting offensive cast will contribute dramatically. Multiple key players will also play roles in the success of Antonio Brown, and their roles are more important than any writer could ever explain.
For example, TE Jesse James will take away a linebacker and safety in goal line situations, which opens up a window for a guy like Brown to make a catch in the back of the end zone. Also, the 6’7″ pass catcher will play a major role in the middle of the field, opening up crossing routes; which, as we have seen in the past, AB loves to be a part of.
After Jesse, we need to give credit to one of last year’s notable up and comers. No other receiver last year showed more promise than Eli Rogers. Rogers took snaps at the slot receiver spot in order to allow number 84 to play out wide and run routes deeper down field, due to the threat of a speedy receiver underneath. Rogers finished last year with 594 receiving yards, which shows he can be a dominant threat in the Steelers offense.
That only makes Brown more dangerous as a decoy and not so much a receiver. But he is not the only receiver to be afraid of…
With guys like James, Rogers, and Sammie Coates returning this season, it’s the return of Martavis Bryant which could really open up the number of targets Brown could see. Bryant is a 6’5″ deep ball machine who can be used to eat up double coverage and open up shorter routes for Antonio. Martavis is returning from a one-year suspension and looking to show Pittsburgh fans he has missed them, as much as they’ve missed him.
We will also be watching second-round rookie draft pick, Juju Smith-Schuster, move around the field. He could play as one of the outside receivers as Antonio and Eli play inside, creating one of the most dynamic receiving corps in the league.
Last but not least, there’s a strong relationship between the best receiver in the NFL and the man who throws him the ball. Ben Roethlisberger is a wily but wise veteran who’s knowledge of the game has made Antonio Brown the league’s top target. Brown finished last year with astounding stats, accumulating 1,284 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. His quarterback also finished the year throwing for 3,819 yards and 29 touchdowns. Ben’s numbers could’ve been bigger if not for injuries and AB missed leading the league in receptions by a single catch, by virtue of sitting out the regular season finale.
Seeing these numbers side-by-side, you can tell that this duo connects very well, and very often. This season, with all factors included, Antonio Brown will live up to the moniker of best receiver in the NFL, with the highest stats of his career!
How do you feel the Steelers own Antonio Brown will do this season?
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