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."
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers projected to receive three compensatory draft picks
Following the season, San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch shared that the team expects to have 10 picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. "We have 10, probably right now, nine draft choices," Lynch said. "We think we'll have 10 with a comp pick. The 49ers retain most of their... -
Drew Brees: 49ers' handling of Brock Purdy is a blueprint for QB-needy teams
With the final pick of the 2022 NFL Draft, the San Francisco 49ers took a chance on an unheralded quarterback from Iowa State, Brock Purdy. At the time, the team was already viewed as a championship contender, entering the season with second-year quarterback Trey Lance at the... -
49ers interview former Panthers coach Chris Tabor for special teams coordinator job
The San Francisco 49ers continue searching for a replacement for recently fired special teams coordinator Brian Schneider. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the team has interviewed former Carolina Panthers coach Chris Tabor for the position. Former Panthers special teams... -
49ers interview Brant Boyer for special teams coordinator; Nick Sorensen won't be retained
Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area reports that the San Francisco 49ers have interviewed New York Jets special teams coordinator Brant Boyer for the same position in Santa Clara. Maiocco also notes that former 49ers defensive coordinator Nick Sorensen, who was considered a...