Derek Carr expresses ‘relief’ to have Antonio Brown ordeal behind him

The Oakland Raiders released receiver Antonio Brown on Saturday, and franchise quarterback Derek Carr is relieved the saga is finally over.

Speaking on NFL Network, David Carr (Derek’s brother) shared that Carr used the word “relief” to describe his feelings about Brown’s release. He noted that he wanted Brown on the team but that the saga was weighing on him as a leader, per Mike Silver of NFL Network.

Just now on @nflnetwork … @DCarr8 told @PatrickClaybon & me that the word his brother Derek used to describe Antonio Brown's release was "relief." (He clarified that Derek wanted AB on the team… but the saga was weighing on him as a leader.)

— Michael Silver (@MikeSilver) September 7, 2019

Of further note is that Carr says he worked with Brown more than any other receiver during any offseason in the NFL, and expressed disappointment it didn’t work out.

Moments ago @DCarr8 told @MikeSilver and me that Derek Carr worked with AB this offseason more than he has with *any* WR in his career. He's glad the ordeal is over….but was truly looking forward to playing with him.

— Patrick Claybon (@PatrickClaybon) September 7, 2019

This has to be a brutal blow to Carr and the rest of his teammates. Brown has been a huge thorn in the side of the organization since the start of training camp. Yet he’s also one of the league’s top offensive players and one who could have certainly helped the Raiders this season.

Now, on the eve of their Week 1 game against Denver, Oakland has to move on without him.