‘Emotional’ Antonio Brown admits Steelers HC Mike Tomlin was a ‘father figure’ to him

Although Brown and Tomlin's relationship took a massive hit after the WR left the Steelers, Brown never lost his respect for his former head coach.

‘Emotional’ Antonio Brown admits Steelers HC Mike Tomlin was a ‘father figure’ to him

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and former wide receiver Antonio Brown (Image via IMAGO)

It’s rare for Antonio Brown to open up his personal life to the world. The former NFL wide receiver can often be found taunting and trolling famous names on social media, but for a change, he went for a trip down memory lane and rekindled heartwarming moments with Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin.

Brown fell down the draft order after the scouts cited his slender build, lack of competitiveness, and a 4.57 40-yard Combine time. The Pittsburgh Steelers took a chance and took him in the sixth round. 

While appearing on Jason Whitlock‘s ‘Fearless podcast,’ the 35-year-old recalled his time with coach Tomlin in Pittsburgh. Brown highlighted that Tomlin was like a father figure to him.

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Mike Tomlin… That dude was like my pops. Ever since I met Mike Tomlin, I always knew I'd have success... Mike Tomlin was that father figure for me. Outside of coach.
Antonio Brown told Whitlock

During the conversation, Brown got emotional about how Tomlin gave him his big break. With Ben Roethlisberger as his quarterback, he managed to adapt to the Steelers way too early. 2013 was his breakout year when he recorded 110 receptions for 1499 yards and eight touchdowns.

Only a year later, he led the league with 129 receptions for 1698 yards. Brown had 100 completions and more than 1200 yards for six straight seasons. However, he was still missing a Super Bowl. So he chose to move out and join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and he won a ring.

The respect is mutual between Mike Tomlin and Antonio Brown

Back in 2022, Tomlin went on the Pivot podcast, hosted by former Steeler Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder. Even though Brown left the team in haste, there was never any bad blood between the two.

'Emotional' Antonio Brown admits Steelers HC Mike Tomlin was a 'father figure' to him
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Brown (Image via IMAGO)

We had nine great years. I appreciate that dude in ways I can't explain to you all that I won't even bother to attempt to explain.
Mike Tomlin revealed

The feeling was mutual.

That guy, Mike Tomlin, always had my back and always believed in me. So I’m always indebted to Mike Tomlin.
Antonio Brown said

If Brown had perhaps stayed with the Steelers, then perhaps he would have won a ring with them. However, almost seven years after his departure, the seven-time Pro Bowler has expressed interest in a return to the team. Although Brown never announced his retirement, he last played in the NFL in a Week 17 win over the New York Jets in 2021.

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