Steelers GM: Brown trade requires 'significant compensation'

The Pittsburgh Steelers will attempt to trade disgruntled receiver Antonio Brown this offseason, but general manager Kevin Colbert told reporters Wednesday that they aren't going to give away the All-Pro. "We're not going to move a significant player for less than significant compensation," Colbert said. After meeting with team president Art Rooney II on Tuesday, Brown announced on Twitter that both sides had decided to part ways. "Had a great meeting with Mr.Rooney today we discussed a lot of things and we cleared the air on several issues! We both agreed that it is time to move on but I'll always have appreciation and gratitude towards the Rooney family and @steelers organization! #CallGod #Boomin," Brown tweeted. Colbert told reporters that the Steelers weren't yet engaged in trade talks, but he expected they would pick up. Still, he said Brown conceivably could return to Pittsburgh if there is "no trade that does not benefit the team." The GM also said Brown will not be allowed to select the team to which he is traded. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported in January that Pittsburgh likely would seek a second-round draft pick for the 30-year-old Brown. But Wednesday, his colleague Tom Pelissero said Brown probably would net the Steelers only a mid-round pick after months of drama. Brown, 30, is due a $2.5 million roster bonus on March 17. Pittsburgh can avoid payment by releasing or trading the seven-time Pro Bowl selection before that date. He has three years remaining on a five-year, $72.7 million contract extension he signed before the 2017 season. --Field Level Media