Antonio Brown addresses critics: I hope 'I can win them over in my actions'

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers hope Antonio Brown can help them win a lot of football games, and the receiver hopes he can win over critics of his character in the process.

"Hopefully, I can change their perspective ... hopefully, I can win them over in my actions," Brown said Wednesday when asked for a response to those questioning whether he should be allowed to return to the pros, according to The Athletic's Greg Auman.

Speaking at his first press conference since signing with the Buccaneers, the receiver stressed his gratitude for another opportunity to suit up in the NFL.

"I've been working on myself for a year and a half ... trying to be a better person," he said, according to Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times.

Brown hasn't played in the NFL since suiting up for one game with the New England Patriots last season. The receiver's time in New England was cut short due to off-field issues, and the league later suspended him eight games in the offseason for violating its personal conduct policy.

The 32-year-old caught passes from Tom Brady during his one game with the Patriots, and he'll team up with the quarterback again in Tampa Bay. Brady has taken Brown under his wing, letting him stay at his house and even connecting him with self-help author and motivational speaker Tony Robbins.

"Tom is my boy," Brown said. "I've learned a lot from him. He's been a great guy in my corner and one of my best friends.''

He added: "(Tony Robbins) has been a great asset ... changing my outlook on a couple things, getting away from anger, being able to see the positive things."

Brown - who spent the majority of his career thus far with the Pittsburgh Steelers - was one of the NFL's most dominant receivers over the past decade. He recorded over 100 receptions and 1,200 receiving yards in six straight seasons from 2013-18.

The Buccaneers will have Brown on the field for the first time Sunday when they take on the New Orleans Saints. He's expected to add even more firepower to an offense that already includes Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and Rob Gronkowski.

"I'm just super grateful to be here in such a great organization to be around some great players," Brown said.

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