NFL: Raiders reverse course, reinstate WR Antonio Brown for Monday's opener

The Antonio Brown saga took a somewhat unexpected twist Friday, with Oakland Raiders coach Jon Gruden telling the media the mercurial receiver would be with the team and play in its Monday night season opener against the Denver Broncos. The announcement came after it was widely reported that the team planned to either suspend or cut Brown following a series of incidents that included a confrontation with general manager Mike Mayock.

"Antonio is back today," Gruden told the media at Friday's practice. "We're really excited about that. Ready to move on. He's had a lot of, obviously, time to think about things. We're happy to have him back, and I know Raider Nation is excited about that, too."

Several media outlets reported that Gruden's announcement came after the player delivered an apology to his teammates ahead of Friday's practice.

The apology came in the aftermath of a reported confrontation with Mayock during Wednesday's practice. The receiver was upset that the team intended to fine him for his repeated absences during training camp. Brown posted a copy of a letter authored by Mayock, informing him of the discipline, on social media and chastised the team.

The receiver then confronted the general manager on the practice field and several reports stated that the player had to be pulled away by his teammates. But on Friday, Brown told ESPN the exchange was not as heated as widely reported.

"Everything has been blown out of proportion," Brown said.

The receiver also spoke to the media after Gruden confirmed he would be playing on Monday and issued a public apology.

"I'm excited to be out here today," Brown said. "I want to apologize to my teammates, the organization. Enough talk, man. I'm excited to be out here with my teammates, grateful for all the fans. I'm excited to be part of the Raiders and I'll see you guys soon."

The Raiders are one-point underdogs against the Broncos for their Monday night contest. 

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