‘Probably my fault’ – What Bruce Arians said to Antonio Brown that led to controversial outburst

Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Bruce Arians addressed Antonio Brown's infamous mid-game departure against the New York Jets in 2021 during an appearance on the Not Just Football podcast. Arians explained that Brown grew frustrated at halftime over a lack of targets while being double-teamed. When Brown claimed he would not return without getting the football, Arians responded by telling him to "get the hell out of here," which Brown interpreted literally.

The incident resulted in Brown removing his jersey and pads before storming off the field, marking the end of his Buccaneers and NFL career. Following the contest, Arians and quarterback Tom Brady confirmed Brown would not return to the team. Although Brown claimed the team mishandled his injuries, Tampa Bay released him days later, and he subsequently retired from professional football.