TAMPA (Fla.) -- Antonio Brown, a wide receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, didn't know where he was going to end up in his NFL career. He was also preparing to serve an 8-game suspension for violating NFL's personal conduct policy.Now, fast forward to 2021 training camp -- Brown has focused on his personal life after finding his Super Bowl role and thriving in it. He said that the greatest thing he took from this year was gratitude."Life was uncertain last year. Brown stated Monday that there was a lot of uncertainty. "Would it be possible for me to play football if I was suspended?" Brown said Monday. To make sure that I understand [this], I remember exactly where I was last year. Being grateful for where I am right now and showing respect. I have all my goals and the opportunity to do what I love. There is so much I can now appreciate."I have just come to accept the situation I am in. Keep your perspective straight. Keep your gratitude. A.P.G. Appreciation -- I am grateful for the chance to do what I love. Maintaining a positive perspective. It's bigger than I am. ... And just being grateful. Thankful to do what I love ..."Britney Taylor was Brown's former trainer. Taylor had filed a civil lawsuit accusing Brown of sexually assaulting Taylor in 2019. Although the terms of the settlement were not disclosed, Taylor's attorney stated to ESPN that Taylor and Brown "felt it was necessary to move on."Brown's felony probation for an incident with a truck driver was also ended a year earlier due to good behavior, but he still faces legal action from the driver.Brown stated that he was just happy to let go of all the old stuff. It's a fresh chapter for me. It's a new chapter for me. It's a pleasure to be here."After suffering an injury in the NFC divisional playoff match against the New Orleans Saints, Brown had to have arthroscopic knee surgery in May. This forced him out of the NFC Championship Game. Brown returned to the Super Bowl with five catches, including a touchdown of 1-yard in the first quarter.Bruce Arians, Bucs coach, said that this is his best year in years. It's been bothering him since a few years. It's now all cleaned up, so it's okay."He probably didn't need that procedure but he refused to do it. It's incredible, I was speaking to Emmanuel Sanders last evening and he said that this was his first ever surgery. It's amazing for someone his age (33). It is amazing how well he takes care himself. He is playing at a pace that was unimaginable four to five years ago.Brown continues to be influenced by Quarterback Tom Brady, whom he has likened to a brother. Although there were some communication issues early in camp, they have been able to develop great chemistry and Brown has been nearly unbeatable during practices.Brown could return to his All-Pro form with Brady and Arians' offense. It may not be possible to duplicate his NFL stats of leading the NFL in receiving yards and receptions in 2014, 2017 and 2015. The Bucs are blessed with many weapons, including Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Rob Gronkowski. Howard and Cameron Brate were removed from the PUP List on Monday.Brown expressed gratitude for the chance to spend an additional year with Brady.
