Patriots release Antonio Brown heading into Week 3 vs. Jets

The New England Patriots decided enough was enough. The team announced on Friday afternoon they have released wide receiver Antonio Brown. The news comes amidst reports of multiple instances of sexual misconduct, and allegedly sending an intimidating text message to an unnamed accuser.

Brown signed with the Patriots shortly after the Oakland Raiders released him the weekend of Week 1. Brown sat out the first game, and then caught four receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown in Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins.

Fantasy impact: Drew Rosenhaus tweeted that Brown, “is healthy and looking forward to his next opportunity in the NFL.” It remains to be seen where that will be, and if it will happen this season. The NFL is investigating the various issues of potential misconduct, and while they have not placed him on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, there are reports it could still happen.

In the meantime, the beat goes on in New England. Tom Brady loses a star receiver, but considering how the Patriots looked in Week 1 without Brown, I suspect Brady will be fine. He still has Julian Edelman and Josh Gordon, along with a bevy of running backs. Edelman and Gordon both figure to benefit with Brown’s departure. Brown led the team with eight targets in Week 2, so there will be plenty of work to go around.