Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert joined NFL Network Up to the Minute on Friday and was asked about wide receiver Antonio Brown. The Steelers are looking to trade him but the cost to acquire the All-Pro receiver might not be as cheap as some are speculating.
The Steelers have not given permission to Brown or his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, to speak with other teams to facilitate a trade. That means everything must go through Colbert and the Steelers. Three teams have already contacted him to inquire about Brown.
"Teams have reached out," Colbert said. "We've had, I'd say, three teams that have touched base with us, and we'll see where that grows. I think it will continue to grow."
It could grow next week when NFL teams gather in Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine. Colbert feels that interest will increase as teams go through their free agency and draft evaluations. Teams' interest could change depending on those evaluations.
"Right now, the one thing that doesn't change is Antonio Brown and his value as a football player, not only to use but what he could do for somebody else," Colbert continued.
The Steelers general manager reiterated that they would only make a move if there is a clear benefit to the Steelers organization. They know Brown's value and won't be giving anyone a discount because of the perceived character issues surrounding the receiver.
"I'm not going to talk about what we're expecting," Colbert answered when asked if the Steelers are looking for a first-round pick in exchange for Brown. "I think you can understand what we're expecting because we're looking at maybe not having a significant player; maybe one of the best football players not only on our team but in the National Football League.
"Of course, if you're going to subtract that player from your team, you'd better have compensation that justifies that. That's what we're seeking."
It was reported this week that the Steelers told Brown in a meeting on Tuesday morning to stop hurting his trade value.
Colbert continued, "We're open to [a trade], but again, if it doesn't benefit us, we won't do it."