The Antonio Brown era in Tampa Bay is underway.
The troubled wide receiver's eight-week suspension has come to an end, allowing him to begin practice with the Buccaneers and prepare for the team's Sunday Night Football matchup vs. the New Orleans Saints.
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Speaking with reporters Wednesday for the first time as a Buc, Brown was asked about his personal relationship with quarterback Tom Brady. Donning a TB12 hat, he raved about the former New England Patriots signal-caller.
"Tom is my boy," Brown said. "One of the greatest leaders to be around. He's encouraging, always inspiring. He brings out the best of the people around him. He wants the best for everyone around him. He's the greatest quarterback of all time. He's always getting better day in and day out.
"I just learn a lot from him. How he trains, how he takes care of himself professionally, his discipline, his work ethic, his approach. He's been a great guy in my corner and one of my close friends."
New England Patriots
Brown has been staying at Brady's house since joining the Buccaneers, something he also did during his brief stint in New England last year. Though Brady denies pushing for Tampa to sign Brown, it's clear the two have a close rapport.
Whether that relationship will carry over to the field remains to be seen. If it does, Brady will have a wealth of weapons at his disposal including Brown, Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, and ex-Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski.
Brown's anticipated Bucs debut is set for 8:20 p.m. on Sunday.